New research from the American Cancer Society highlights the life-saving and cost-saving value of early colon cancer detection – a priority in MedBen WellLiving’s proactive wellness approach. Screenings for U.S. adults aged 45 to 49 rose 62% from 2019 to 2023, following the recommended screening age being lowered from 50 to 45. This increase is linked to more cancers being found at earlier, more treatable stages.

Early detection matters. Treating colon cancer in its earliest stages can cost three to four times less than treating it in later stages, when aggressive therapies, extended hospital stays, and higher complication risks become common.

The ACS also found colon cancer incidence among adults aged 45 to 49 increased from 1.1% annually (2004–2019) to 12% annually (2019–2022), underscoring the need for timely screenings before symptoms appear.

MedBen WellLiving supports employees in getting screened at the right time, with recommended colonoscopies integrated into its wellness strategy. This helps safeguard member health while reducing long-term medical costs for employers.

To learn more about how WellLiving promotes early cancer detection, contact your broker or MedBen Marketing today.