Finding the best age to start screening for colorectal cancer

Optimal early colorectal cancer screening initiation

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10949013

This study is looking at the best age for people between 45 and 49 to start getting screened for colorectal cancer, and it wants to find out how comfortable they feel about it and what might encourage them to participate, while also making sure everyone, no matter their background, has a fair chance to get screened.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10949013 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the optimal age to begin colorectal cancer screening, particularly focusing on adults aged 45-49. It aims to understand how acceptable screening is for this age group and what factors may influence their participation. The study will also explore potential disparities in screening uptake among different racial and ethnic groups, ensuring that all populations have equal access to screening. By developing a targeted strategy, the research seeks to improve early detection of colorectal cancer in younger adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 45-49, particularly those from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients who are under 45 years old or those who have already been diagnosed with colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of colorectal cancer, potentially saving lives and reducing mortality rates in younger adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeted screening strategies can improve participation rates and outcomes in cancer screening, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.