Colorectal Cancer Alliance weighs in on New ACS screening guidelines

Colorectal cancer is one of the most fatal cancers, but early screenings are saving lives. The Colorectal Cancer Alliance is urging Americans to prioritize screening to catch the disease at its earliest. According to updated guidelines by the American Cancer Society (ACS), screening can save lives and raise public awareness.

A variety of screening options are available including new stool-based and blood-based options, but not all tests are equal.

The MT-s testing demonstrates high sensitivity for colorectal cancer and moderate sensitivity for advanced precancerous lesions. 

Notably, the mt-SDNA test is an updated version of an already recommended home test that analyzes stool samples for specific DNA markers and hemoglobin. 

Most importantly colonoscopy is one of the important screening tests that can both detect and remove precancer. Preferred by ACS guidelines; widely covered by insurance.

Multitarget mt-sDNA stool tests, (including brands, Cologuard Plus) are effective at (detecting 43% of precancer), can be done at home, and are widely covered by insurance. It is crucial to mention that high-quality FIT stool tests are effective at detecting 24% of precancer and can be done at home. They are also widely covered by insurance.

The Colorectal Cancer Alliance relies heavily on supporting tests with an A or B rating from the US Preventive Services Task Force, as this rating is mandatory insurance coverage.

The newly added blood-based tests and mt-sRNA stool tests do not have an A or B rating from the USPSTF which means that they are not extensively covered by insurance and are less accessible to the general public.

Richard Wender at the Perelman School of Medicine said: “Ongoing screening innovation is critical to increasing screening participation and early detection particularly among individuals who face barriers to screening.”

According to Michael Sapienza, Chief Executive Officer of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, the updated guidelines serve as a reminder that we have tools to help prevent this deadly disease now or detect it early when the survival rates are higher than 90%.

“The Alliance encourages Americans to be aware of their screening options, discuss them with their healthcare provider and take action.”

The ultimate motive of healthcare experts is to utilize effective screening tests; however, patients should still consult their doctors to choose the best option based on their age, health history and insurance coverage.