HR 1738

The Colorectal Cancer Early Detection, Prevention and Treatment Act


HR 1738

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States. In 2007, an estimated 153,760 new cases will be diagnosed and an estimated 52,180 men and women will die from the disease. A significant percentage of these cancer diagnoses and deaths could be prevented, if more people took advantage of colorectal cancer screening.

When colorectal cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the 5 year survival rate is 90 percent. However, when cancer is not diagnosed until it has spread to distant organs, the 5 year survival rate is only 10 percent. Furthermore, the disease can be prevented through the early identification and removal of pre-cancerous polyps, detectable only through colorectal cancer screenings. Between 30,000 – 44,000 lives a year could be saved if everyone over 50 got screened for colorectal cancer. Of the 52,180 people expected to die of colorectal cancer in 2007, 50-80% could be saved if they were tested. Eliminating the financial barrier to screening is essential.


The Colorectal Cancer Early Detection, Prevention and Treatment Act will establish a life-saving program to fight colorectal cancer, one of the most easily preventable cancers.


This bill:

• Establishes a program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to provide screenings and treatment for colorectal cancer.
• Targets screening services toward individuals between 50 - 64 years of age (the pre-Medicare population), or those under 50 years old but with high risk of such cancer.
• Gives priority to low-income, uninsured and underinsured individuals who would not otherwise have coverage for colorectal cancer screening, diagnostic follow up, and/or treatment.
• Provides case management and referrals for medical treatment of screened individuals.
• Ensures the full continuum of cancer care for individuals screened, including the appropriate follow-up for abnormal tests, diagnostic and therapeutic services, and treatment for detected cancers.
• Provides education and training for health professionals in the detection of colorectal cancer.
• Develops and disseminates findings and outcomes data in order to evaluate the program for cost, effectiveness and reach, which will inform ongoing community screening and treatment efforts.