Early Detection Saves Lives

Colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable when found early. At LiveYoung Medical Centre, we follow Ontario Health and Cancer Care Ontario guidelines to provide timely and appropriate colorectal cancer screening. Screening is not only for older adults — it is also essential for younger people with risk factors.

Who Should Get Screened?

Average Risk (Ages 50–74)

FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) every 2 years.
Covered by OHIP, simple to do at home.

Increased Risk (Family History)

• People with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) diagnosed with colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps should begin screening earlier.
  
  • Colonoscopy is recommended starting at age 40, or 10 years earlier than the age your relative was diagnosed (whichever comes first)
  • Repeat every 5–10 years depending on findings

OHIP covers colonoscopy for patients with family history.

High Risk (Genetic or Medical Conditions)

Screening may begin in early adulthood starting as early as 20–30 years of age if they have:

• Lynch Syndrome (Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer, HNPCC) – colonoscopy every 1–2 years starting at 20–25.
• Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) – genetic counseling and screening as early as adolescence.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD: Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis) – colonoscopy every 1–2 years after 8–10 years of disease.
• Other Rare Syndromes (Peutz-Jeghers, MUTYH-associated polyposis) – individualized plans with genetic and gastroenterology specialists.

Why Screening Matters in Younger Adults

• In Ontario, colorectal cancer rates in people under 50 are rising.
• Having a family history doubles your risk.
• Genetic syndromes can increase lifetime risk up to 80%, making early detection critical.
• Screening provides peace of mind and often leads to prevention by removing pre-cancerous polyps

Types of Screening Tests at LiveYoung Medical Centre

✔️ FIT Kits – OHIP-covered for average-risk adults 50–74.
✔️ Colonoscopy – for high-risk or symptomatic patients, covered by OHIP.
✔️ Specialist Referrals – direct access to gastroenterology for genetic and complex cases.
✔️ Family History Assessments – our physicians review your family and personal health background to determine the right plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be screened before age 50?
✅ Yes. If you have a family history or a medical condition that increases your risk, OHIP covers early colonoscopy.

Does OHIP cover genetic testing?
✅ In many cases, yes. If your family history suggests a hereditary cancer syndrome, we coordinate referrals for genetic counseling and testing.

What if I’m under 40 but worried?
✅ Book a consultation at LiveYoung Medical Centre. We’ll review your risk and provide an individualized screening plan.

Discover how everyday habits can make a real difference in lowering your risk of cancer. From healthy eating and regular activity to preventive check-ups, small choices you make today can protect your health for years to come.

Click Here

Book Your Screening Today

Don’t wait for symptoms — whether you’re 30, 50, or older, the right time to get screened depends on your personal risk. Our doctors at LiveYoung Medical Centre in Milton will help you find the safest, most effective path.

👉 Call us today or book online to request your FIT kit, colonoscopy referral, or risk assessment.