The American College of Radiology (ACR) is urging individuals ages 50 and older, particularly those with a family history of colorectal cancer, not to delay or forego recommended screening.
The ACR's statement comes on the heels of an article published in the New York Times on June 1 that raised concerns about the cost of the procedure.
While the ACR recognizes the need to conserve healthcare resources, regular colorectal cancer screening saves lives, the organization said in a statement.
"There is absolutely no doubt that thousands of people are alive today, who otherwise would not be, as a direct result of regular colorectal cancer screening," Dr. Judy Yee, chair of the ACR's colon cancer committee, said in a statement. "The ACR agrees with the Times article's assessment that Americans need greater access to more colorectal cancer screening choices -- including CT colonography -- otherwise known as virtual colonoscopy. ACR is ready to work with Congress, Medicare, and other stakeholders to make that happen."
