The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) strongly recommends that clinicians screen men and women aged 50 and older who are at average risk for colorectal cancer. For higher-risk patients, it is reasonable to begin screening at a younger age.
There are insufficient data to determine which particular screening strategy is best in terms of the balance of benefits and harms or cost-effectiveness. Studies reviewed by the USPSTF indicate that colorectal cancer screening is likely to be cost effective regardless of which screening method is used. The choice of screening strategy should be based on patient preferences, medical contraindications, patient adherence, and resources for testing and followup.
The USPSTF Recommendations and Rationale—as well as the Summary of Evidence, Systematic Review, and a fact sheet are available below.
Return to U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
Clinical Information
AHRQ Home Page
Department of Health and Human Services