A recent report from the American Cancer Society (ACS) reveals that colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting individuals under the age of 55 and often at more advanced stages.
The report also notes that the number of colorectal cancer diagnoses in younger individuals has more than doubled since 1995, and the death rates among those under 50 have been rising by 1% annually since 2005.
According to the BIS Research report, the global colorectal cancer screening market is projected to reach $9.73 billion by 2033 from $1.93 billion in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 15.94% during the forecast period 2023-2033.
The American Cancer Society recommended states lower the eligibility age for screening coverage to 45. Currently, in Oregon, coverage for screenings begins at the age of 50, but this will change in January 2024.
Here’s the Complete Story
The ACS has advised that every state should decrease the screening age for colorectal cancer to 45. This includes various procedures like fecal occult blood tests, colonoscopies, and biopsies, with no extra expenses borne by individuals. Currently, 11 states have implemented this change, but Oregon is not among them.
In Oregon, individuals between the ages of 45 and 50 who have Oregon Health Plan or state-regulated insurance will have to wait until January 2024 to be eligible for colorectal cancer screening coverage. This information has been confirmed by the Oregon Health Authority.
Need for the Extension in Health Plan
Colorectal cancer ranks as the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. While the incidence of diagnosis is higher in men compared to women, both genders face similar risks of developing colorectal cancer. According to the report by the ACS, individuals from Alaskan Native, American Indian, or Black backgrounds have the highest incidence rates for colorectal cancer.
In general, colonoscopies are typically covered once every 10 years, while fecal occult blood tests are covered once per year for colorectal cancer screening. However, if an individual is considered to have a higher risk for developing colorectal cancer, more frequent screenings would likely be covered.
Jamie Dunphy, the government relations director in Oregon for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, expressed confidence that this change in federal law would effectively lower the rates of both colorectal cancer incidence and mortality in Oregon.
Conclusion
Satyendrsingh Rajput, Lead Research Analyst at BIS Research, stated that “The growing prevalence of colorectal cancer is driving the need for accurate and timely diagnosis. This has resulted in the uptake of molecular-based tests and at-home test kits, aiding early detection and providing vital information to healthcare providers.”
Thus, the Oregon Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (OCCCP) is actively involved in various chronic disease prevention programs, including colorectal cancer.
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