Reflecting on Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

As Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month closes, Guardant Health reflects on the journey to develop a blood-based test for colorectal cancer screening. Over the last decade, the effort culminated in an approach that is now FDA-approved, guideline-recommended, and reimbursable, enabling the launch of Shield to support earlier detection and improved outcomes.

Early Detection Improves Outcomes, Yet a Large Segment Remains Unscreened

Early detection in colorectal cancer yields a 91% five-year survival rate, compared with 15% if diagnosed after spread. Nevertheless, roughly one in three eligible Americans remain unscreened for CRC.

There is a rising incidence of colorectal cancer among younger adults. Among individuals under 50, colorectal cancer mortality has increased by 1.1% annually since 2005 and is now the leading cause of cancer death in this age group.

Blood-Based Screening Expands Screening Pathways

In 2024, Shield became the first FDA-approved blood-based test for primary colorectal cancer screening. Since its launch, providers and patients have adopted the test across large health systems and rural practices, offering an easy screening option for average-risk adults 45 and older.

In rural Appalachia, where colorectal cancer incidence and mortality are among the highest in the United States, screening adherence rose to 98.5% when Shield was offered as an additional screening option. Overall screening rates more than doubled, from 45% to 90%, illustrating the value of accessible blood tests in boosting uptake.

Commitment to Broader Access

Motivated by Shield’s impact to date, the company is continuing to invest in technology, expand teams, and deepen partnerships to bring Shield to more people, families, and communities worldwide.

During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, educational outreach and partnerships with providers reinforced the importance of screening and contributed to narrowing the CRC screening gap.

Despite progress, disparities in access persist. Some patients face barriers to colorectal cancer screening, and some cancers remain undetectable by current tests. These gaps drive ongoing work toward a future with broader access and earlier detection for more people.