March 26, 2026
In recognition of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, the Nova Scotia Liberals will table a bill to lower the routine age for colon cancer screening from 50 to 45. The change reflects growing evidence that more Canadians under 50 are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and that earlier detection saves lives.
Colorectal cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Canada and the third leading cause of cancer deaths among men and women. In Nova Scotia alone, nearly 900 people are diagnosed each year, and more than 300 lost their lives to the disease. Countries like the United States and Australia have already lowered the recommended screening age to 45.
“Early detection can truly make the difference between life and death,” said Interim Leader Iain Rankin. “We’re seeing more and more people under 50 facing colorectal cancer, and this bill is a practical, evidence-based step to make screening more accessible. By catching cancer earlier, we can save lives and give people a better chance to be here for the moments that really matter.”
Kyra Hansen, a Nova Scotian who was diagnosed with stage four rectal cancer at the age of 45, knows firsthand the importance of early detection. A mother to a 16-year-old daughter, Kyra has been in treatment for a year, receiving chemotherapy and targeted therapy every two weeks. Despite the challenges, she has stayed active and working part-time, and has become a passionate advocate for earlier screening.
“Being diagnosed at 45 completely changed my life,” said Hansen. “If screening had been available at an earlier age for people like me, it’s possible my cancer could have been caught sooner when it was more treatable. I hope that by telling my story, we can encourage action that helps more people get screened earlier, and ultimately, save lives.”