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Colorectal Cancer Screening and Surveillance in the Geriatric Population

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Abstract

Purpose of the Review

Our national guidelines regarding screening and surveillance for colorectal cancer recommend individualized discussions with patients 75–85 years of age. This review explores the complex decision-making that surrounds these discussions.

Recent Findings

Despite updated guidelines for colorectal cancer screening and surveillance, the guidance for patients 75 years of age or older remains unchanged. Studies exploring the risks to colonoscopy in this population, patient preferences, life expectancy calculators and additional studies in the subpopulation of inflammatory bowel disease patients provide points of consideration to aid in individualized discussions.

Summary

The benefit-risk discussion for colorectal cancer screening in patients over 75 years old warrants further guidance to develop best practice. To craft more comprehensive recommendations, additional research with inclusion of such patients is needed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Gastroenterology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA

    Janice Cheong

  2. Division of Gastroenterology NYU Grossman School of Medicine , New York, USA

    Adam Faye & Aasma Shaukat

  3. 240 E. 38th street, fl 23, New York, NY, 10016, USA

    Aasma Shaukat

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  1. Janice Cheong
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Correspondence to Aasma Shaukat.

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Cheong, J., Faye, A. & Shaukat, A. Colorectal Cancer Screening and Surveillance in the Geriatric Population. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 25, 141–145 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-023-00875-8

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