FDA approves expansion of Cologuard testing by Madison-based Exact Sciences

23 Sep FDA approves expansion of Cologuard testing by Madison-based Exact Sciences

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – Exact Sciences announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the expansion of its colorectal cancer screening test Cologuard to people between the ages of 45 and 49.

Previously, Cologuard was only approved for adults 50 years or older. This reflects the American Cancer Society’s new screening guidelines that start at age 45.

“About three million people have been screened for colorectal cancer with Cologuard, with nearly half of those surveyed saying they were previously unscreened. With the FDA now approving the use of Cologuard for this vulnerable 45-49 age group, we are giving health care providers a sensitive, noninvasive option that has the potential to help combat the rise of colorectal cancer rates among this younger group of people,” said Kevin Conroy, chairman and CEO of Exact Sciences.

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