Mile High Magazine 08/30/2026 American Cancer Society Colorectal Cancer

Guest: Dr. Hans Elzinga, Director of Special Procedures Clinic for Salud Family Health and volunteer medical expert for the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society has updated its colorectal cancer screening guidelines to include a blood-based screening test as an option for people who prefer not to use stool-based tests or undergo a colonoscopy. Screening is now recommended starting at age 45 due to rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults. Early detection is critical, as colorectal cancer is often highly treatable when caught early. It remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with more than 55,000 deaths expected this year. Symptoms may include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, narrowed stools, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or persistent abdominal fullness.

https://www.cancer.org/about-us/local/colorado.html

Mile High Magazine takes a look at the issues and people shaping Colorado. Presented by the public affairs department of Bonneville Denver.