Guardant Health Unveils Survey Results Highlighting Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening
Increased Fear and Anxiety Detected Among Patients
On February 27, 2025, Guardant Health, Inc. (Nasdaq: GH), a prominent player in the precision oncology sector, released its second annual “Closing the Gap: CRC Screening Insights” survey results, revealing critical insights into the barriers preventing many Americans from undergoing colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Conducted by The Harris Poll, this survey aims to assess the understanding of CRC screening among Americans while identifying the factors that delay or deter individuals from completing their recommended screenings.
1. Key Findings from the Survey
The survey, which included responses from 1,000 American adults aged 45 to 84 and 350 physicians, indicates that a staggering 90% of surveyed physicians are concerned about the low rates of CRC screening among their patients. The data suggests that fear and anxiety regarding traditional screening methods, such as colonoscopies and stool tests, play a significant role in the screening gap.
Patient Concerns on the Rise
The 2025 survey indicates a worrying trend, with nearly one-third of patients expressing fear or anxiety about the CRC screening process—an increase from 22% in 2024. This sentiment is echoed by 82% of gastroenterologists, who believe that such fears are a barrier to screening completion, up from 67% in the previous year.
Moreover, 24% of Americans now assert that traditional screening tests do not facilitate easy access to CRC screening, a rise from 18% the prior year. This highlights a growing discomfort with conventional methods, emphasizing the need for alternatives.
The Promise of Blood Tests
The survey findings also underscore the potential of blood tests to alleviate patient concerns. A significant majority of both primary care providers (93%) and American patients (86%) believe that the availability of an FDA-approved blood test would reduce the likelihood of patients avoiding or delaying CRC screenings. Dr. Craig Eagle, Chief Medical Officer of Guardant Health, expressed optimism regarding this development, stating, “Offering patients the more pleasant, convenient option of a blood test has the potential to improve CRC screening rates and ultimately save more lives.”
Guardant Health’s Shield™ blood test stands out as the first blood test approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for primary CRC screening. The test, designed for adults aged 45 and older at average risk, offers a non-invasive alternative that requires no preparation or stool handling, making it a more comfortable option for patients.
2. Colorectal Cancer: A Growing Concern
Colorectal cancer remains the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, accounting for an estimated 53,000 fatalities in 2024. Despite clinical guidelines recommending routine screenings starting at age 45, over 75% of individuals who succumb to CRC are not up to date with their screenings.
Satisfaction and Screening Willingness
The survey also revealed that 92% of Americans would feel more satisfied with their healthcare visits if their providers offered an FDA-approved blood test for CRC screening. Furthermore, 92% indicated they would be more inclined to undergo a colonoscopy if they received a positive result from a blood screening first.
Racial Disparities in Screening
Strikingly, the survey highlighted disparities in screening rates among different demographic groups. Despite heightened concerns about CRC, People of Color (POC) reported lower screening rates compared to their white counterparts—63% versus 72%. The American Cancer Society notes that Black individuals are significantly more likely to develop and die from CRC than other racial or ethnic groups in the U.S.
3. Conclusion
The “Closing the Gap: CRC Screening Insights” survey sheds light on the pressing need for innovative approaches to CRC screening. As fear and anxiety continue to deter patients from seeking necessary screenings, the introduction of non-invasive blood tests like Guardant Health's Shield™ may offer a viable solution to increase screening rates. The findings underscore the importance of addressing patient concerns and improving access to screening options to reduce the burden of colorectal cancer and save lives.
Guardant Health remains committed to transforming cancer care through advanced testing solutions and real-world data, paving the way for a future where cancer screening is not only effective but also accessible and patient-friendly.
