H.R. 5162 — Colorectal Cancer Early Detection Act

This section states congressional findings on colorectal cancer in the United States, including its status as the third leading cause of cancer deaths in men and fourth in women (second overall), with over 141,000 new cases and 52,000 deaths in 2021 and projected increases to over 154,270 cases and 52,900 deaths in 2025. The section further finds rising rates among younger individuals, with about 1 in 5 cases in those age 54 and younger (20% under age 55, half of early-onset cases under age 45), a projected 90% increase in cases among ages 20 to 39 by 2030, and colorectal cancer expected to become the leading cause of cancer deaths for those under age 50 by 2030.

This section authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to award competitive five-year grants (renewable at the Secretary's discretion) to states (including the District of Columbia and U.S. territories) to increase awareness, education, and early detection of colorectal cancer among young individuals (i.e., under age 45). Grant applications must describe plans for (1) outreach and education on colorectal cancer incidence and risk factors, emphasizing young individuals at increased or high risk (e.g., those with family history of colorectal cancer or advanced adenomatous polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis, rectal bleeding, iron deficiency anemia, or other factors per national guidelines) and underserved populations (e.g., rural residents, American Indians, Alaska Natives, African Americans, individuals with type 2 diabetes); (2) partnerships with hospitals, clinics, Tribal organizations, nonprofits, institutions of higher education, and colorectal cancer programs; and (3) activities to boost awareness, education, navigation, and program evaluation. Grant funds may support (1) early detection and diagnostic testing for at-risk young individuals; (2) referrals for treatment, genetic testing, counseling, and follow-up; (3) public awareness campaigns; (4) health professional education on screening, diagnostics, symptoms, genetics, and family history; (5) quality monitoring of screening procedures; (6) risk factor surveillance; (7) family history and genetic strategies; (8) patient navigation; (9) clinician decision support tools; and (10) activity evaluation. States must return unspent funds within six months after the grant period ends and submit a report on grant use within five years of receipt (including renewals).