Colorectal screening in Canada, 2023-24
Provincial and territorial screening parameters
All provinces and territories recommend screening asymptomatic, average-risk individuals between the ages of 50 and 74 every 12–24 months with a fecal test (FT). All jurisdictions use the fecal immunochemical test (FIT). Most jurisdictions have a screening interval of two years, with the exception of Northwest Territories and Alberta, with an interval of one to two years.
Provincial and territorial screening parameters
| P/T | Age eligibility | Routine screening interval | Primary screening test | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YT | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals |
| NT | 50-74 | 1-2 years | FIT | Based on clinical practice guideline |
| NU | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Based on clinical practice guidelines |
| BC | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals |
| AB | 50-74 | 1-2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals |
| SK | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals |
| MB | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals* |
| ON | 50-74~ | 2 years | FIT^ | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals without a parent, sibling, or child diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
People with inflammatory bowel disease (i.e. Crohn’s disease involving the colon or ulcerative colitis) and some people who have had polyps removed from their colon may need a regular colonoscopy instead of FIT. |
| QC | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals |
| NB | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals |
| NS** | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals with no personal history of CRC, adenomatous polyps, and/or irritable bowel disease (IBD).
FIT tests will also be distributed to those with a first-degree relative over age 60 when diagnosed with CRC, with one or more second-degree relatives diagnosed with CRC at any age, and/or to anyone with a family history of polyps. |
| PE | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals |
| NL | 50-74 | 2 years | FIT | Asymptomatic, average risk individuals |
*MB: As FIT distribution is being centralized under CancerCare Manitoba, the program will distribute FIT to individuals at low increased risk due to family history starting at age 40, and to individuals 75 -85 years both of which are based on healthcare provider request.
^ON: In Ontario, people ages 50–74 with no symptoms or family history of colorectal cancer in a first-degree relative may choose to be screened with flexible sigmoidoscopy instead of FIT. It is recommended that eligible people who are screened with flexible sigmoidoscopy repeat the test every 10 years.
~ON: People ages 75–85 may also screen with FIT at the PCP’s discretion.
**NS: The last FIT kit is mailed shortly after the participant’s 74th birthday. Participants can request a new kit (if lost or expired) up until their 76th birthday.