TORONTO, June 29, 2026 – Ontario will lower the starting age for publicly funded colorectal cancer screening from 50 to 45 for people at average risk beginning July 1, while the starting age for those at increased risk will fall to 40. The province estimates that more than one million residents will become eligible for screening earlier. People aged 45 to 49, along with those who have an immediate family member diagnosed with colorectal cancer, should become familiar with the new testing arrangements. Anyone experiencing rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss should seek medical care directly rather than wait for routine screening.
Ontario’s colorectal cancer screening program primarily uses the fecal immunochemical test, commonly known as FIT. The test checks a small stool sample for traces of blood that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
People at average risk are those who do not have symptoms of colorectal cancer, have no personal history of the disease, and do not have a parent, sibling or child who has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Beginning July 1, Ontario residents between the ages of 45 and 74 who meet the average-risk criteria will be eligible for screening through the provincial program.
People at average risk are generally advised to complete a FIT every two years. The test does not require dietary restrictions, and most medications do not need to be stopped in advance. The sample can be collected at home and returned according to the instructions provided.
The screening age for people at increased risk will be lowered from 50 to 40. The province defines this group mainly as people with a parent, sibling or child who has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The appropriate screening method and starting time may depend on the age at which the relative was diagnosed and the individual’s medical history.
Residents with a family doctor or nurse practitioner can ask whether they qualify and how to obtain a test kit. Beginning July 1, people without a regular primary care provider can call 811 for information about accessing publicly funded screening.
A positive FIT result does not mean that cancer has been diagnosed, but it will generally require further investigation through a colonoscopy to determine the source of the bleeding. People who receive a normal result should continue regular screening at the recommended intervals.
Screening is mainly intended for people without symptoms. Anyone experiencing rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, significant changes in bowel habits, long-term fatigue or unexplained anemia should seek medical assessment as soon as possible rather than request a FIT and wait for the result.
Ontario said lowering the screening age is intended to identify precancerous changes or early-stage cancer sooner and improve opportunities for treatment. The new eligibility rules will apply automatically, and residents do not need to register separately because of the age change. However, they will still need to arrange testing through a health-care provider or by calling 811.（LJI by Yuanyuan）
