An Abbotsford, B.C., man, Cory McIntyre, and his wife, Melissa, are advocating for earlier colon cancer screenings due to a harrowing personal experience. Cory has been diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer, which they believe might have been prevented with earlier testing. Melissa revealed that Cory was deemed too young for screening before his diagnosis, despite symptoms appearing a year earlier. After eventually uncovering the advanced state of cancer, Melissa is urging for a reduction in the screening age to prevent similar tragedies.
Currently, BC Cancer recommends screening between 50 to 74 years for those without a family history or symptoms. However, the McIntyres argue this is too late, pointing to an online petition advocating for screenings beginning at age 30, which has garnered significant support with over 37,000 signatures. Colorectal Cancer Canada highlights a concerning rise in young adult cases, reinforcing the urgency for change.
As Cory approaches the two-year mark since his grim prognosis, Melissa stresses the need for accessible tests to save lives and avoid the experiences faced by families like theirs. The couple’s story adds to the growing demand for healthcare policy adjustments to address the rising threat of early-onset colorectal cancer.
