The Cancer Screenings You Need
When it comes to cancer, finding out early can make all the difference. Many types of cancer are very treatable when caught in their early stages. This is why regular screening is so important.
Cancer screenings help find abnormal cells before symptoms start. This gives you and your healthcare team the best chance for treatment.
Cancer Screenings
Breast Cancer
- Who: Women age 40 and over
- When: Every 1-2 years
- How: Mammogram
- Why: Regular mammograms can spot breast cancer early.
Women with a family history of breast cancer may need to start screenings earlier.
Cervical Cancer Screening
- Who: Women ages 21 to 65
- When:
- Ages 21-29: Every 3 years
- Ages 30-65: Every 5 years
- How: Pap smear or HPV testing
- Why: Regular screening can find cancer cells before they become cancerous.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
- Who: Adults aged 45 and older
- When: Every 10 years, or more often, based on the type of test
- How: Colonoscopy, stool-based tests
- Why: Colorectal cancer often grows from precancerous polyps. Testing can find and remove polyps before they become cancerous.
Prostate Cancer Screening
- Who: Men aged 50 or older
- When: Every 1-2 years
- How: Blood test
- Why: A blood test can help find cancer early.
Lung Cancer Screening
- Who: Adults aged 50-80 with a past of smoking
- When: Every year
- How: CT scan
- Why: Lung cancer is often found late, but annual screening for high-risk individuals can help.
Skin Cancer Screening
- Who: Adults with fair skin and a history of sunburns or a family history of skin cancer
- When: Every year as part of your annual checkup
- How: Full body skin exam
- Why: When found early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
Oral Cancer Screening
- Who: Adults age 18 and older
- When: Every year during dental checkups
- How: Visual and physical exam by a dentist or doctor
- Why: Oral cancer can develop in the mouth, tongue, or throat. Early detection improves treatment outcomes.
Risk Factors That May Require Earlier Screening
Certain factors may increase your cancer risk. These include:
- Family history of specific cancers
- Genetic mutations
- Smoking
- Alcohol use
- Obesity
- Exposure to cancer-causing materials
It is easy to delay cancer screenings when you feel healthy, but taking the time could save your life. Make your health a priority. Ask your healthcare provider what screenings are right for you.
