Reduced Implementation and Completion of Average-Risk Annual Fecal Immunochemical Test Colorectal Cancer Screening in Black Patients Aged 45–49 Years

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Black adults experience higher burden of CRC and are more likely to be diagnosed before age 50 than other racial/ethnic groups.1-4 In 2017, the US MultiSociety Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommended starting screening at age 45 years in Black adults. In 2021, the US Preventive Services Task Force recommended CRC screening begin at age 45 (vs 50) years for all average-risk adults, aligning with a 2018 recommendation by the American Cancer Society.