Kentucky lowers colorectal cancer screening age for high-risk patients

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Colorectal cancer screenings in Kentucky are getting an update that could save lives.

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, high-risk patients can begin screening at age 40. The change includes anyone with a first-degree relative—a parent, sibling, or child—who has had colorectal cancer or certain large polyps.

Dr. Sandy Kavalukas, an oncologist with UofL Health, said starting screenings earlier can make a big difference in outcomes.

Patients without high-risk factors should still begin screening at 45, but this new law is aimed at getting more people tested sooner.

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in men under 45.

The new law, KRS 304.17A-257, passed unanimously in the Kentucky legislature and expands the definition of "high risk" to help more people get screened early.

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