American Cancer Society adds blood test to colorectal cancer screening guidelines

The American Cancer Society (ACS) issued updated colorectal cancer screening guidelines, recommending that average‑risk adults begin screening at age 45 and continue up to age 75 if life expectancy exceeds ten years. The new guidance adds Guardant Health’s FDA‑approved Shield blood test as an option for people who decline colonoscopy or stool‑based tests, but notes it is less sensitive for precancerous polyps and early‑stage cancers.

The ACS also endorses two newer stool tests – an upgraded DNA test (Cologuard Plus) and an RNA‑based test (ColoSense) – as preferred non‑invasive options. Colonoscopy remains the gold‑standard screening method.

“About a third of Americans are not up to date with colorectal cancer screening,” said Dr. William Dahut, chief scientific officer for the ACS. “The most effective screening test is the one that the patient completes.” The blood test costs roughly $895 and insurance coverage depends on USPSTF endorsement. The changes aim to boost screening rates amid rising colorectal cancer incidence in adults under 50, where one‑third of new cases now occur.