What does the USPSTF recommend?

• For adults aged 50 to 75 years:
  Screen all adults aged 50 to 75 years for colorectal cancer. Grade A
• For adults aged 45 to 49 years:
  Screen adults aged 45 to 49 years for colorectal cancer. Grade B

For adults aged 76 to 85 years:
Selectively screen adults aged 76 to 85 years for colorectal cancer, considering the patient's overall health, prior screening history, and patient's preferences. Grade C

To whom does this recommendation apply?

Adults 45 years and older who do not have signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer and who are at average risk for colorectal cancer (i.e., no prior diagnosis of colorectal cancer, adenomatous polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease; no personal diagnosis or family history of known genetic disorders that predispose them to a high lifetime risk of colorectal cancer [such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis]).

Guidelines were expanded recently for colorectal cancer screening from 45 to 75 years old, previously being 50 to 75 years old.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force outlines screening guidelines for doctors and their patients. 

See more here

Additional sources on screening:

• Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests
• Colorectal Cancer Screening- Cancer.Net
• Colorectal Cancer Screening Alliance - a resource for patients and their caregivers