7 Essential Cancer Screenings Everyone Should Know About
Cancer screenings save lives by catching the disease early, often before symptoms appear. Early detection improves treatment success and survival rates. Here are seven key screenings you should know about:
- Breast Cancer: Annual mammograms starting at age 40 (optional) or 45 (recommended). Women at higher risk may need earlier or additional screenings.
- Cervical Cancer: Pap tests every 3 years from age 21–29, or Pap/HPV co-tests every 5 years from age 30–65.
- Colorectal Cancer: Begin screenings at age 45 using stool tests (yearly) or colonoscopies (every 10 years).
- Lung Cancer: Annual low-dose CT scans for adults 50–80 with a smoking history of 20+ pack-years.
- Prostate Cancer: PSA blood tests starting at age 45 (higher risk) or 50 (average risk), with frequency depending on PSA levels.
- Skin Cancer: Monthly self-checks and annual professional skin exams starting in adulthood.
- Ovarian Cancer: Screening is only recommended for women at high risk (e.g., family history, genetic mutations).
Quick Tip: Talk to your doctor to tailor a screening plan based on your age, family history, and lifestyle. Early action is key.
Essential Cancer Screenings: Know When to Start
What Cancer Screenings Do
Cancer screenings are designed to detect cancer early - before symptoms appear - when treatment tends to be most effective and survival rates are higher [1]. These tests can also identify precancerous changes, offering a chance to intervene before cancer develops.
Common screening methods include:
- Medical imaging: Examples include mammograms for breast cancer and low-dose CT scans for lung cancer.
- Laboratory tests: This includes HPV and Pap tests for cervical cancer and stool-based tests for colorectal cancer.
- Endoscopic procedures: Such as colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy.
- Visual skin exams: Used to spot unusual moles or lesions that may indicate skin cancer.
"The whole goal of cancer screening is to detect cancers at a time when the likelihood of being able to cure them is higher, with the goal of preventing people from getting sicker and from dying earlier." – Carol Mangione, MD, MSPH, UCLA Health internist and vice chair of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force [3]
When to Get Screened
The timing for screenings varies based on factors like age, personal risk, and medical history.
Age-Based Recommendations for Average-Risk Individuals [2]:
- Colorectal cancer: Start testing at age 45.
- Breast cancer: Women aged 40 to 44 can opt for annual mammograms.
- Cervical cancer: Begin screening at age 25 with primary HPV testing every five years through age 65.
- Lung cancer: Adults aged 50 to 80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history should have annual low-dose CT scans.
Risk Factors That May Require Adjustments:
- Family history: May warrant earlier or more frequent screenings.
- Smoking history: Calls for annual low-dose CT scans.
- Gender: Certain tests, like prostate or cervical cancer screenings, are gender-specific.
- Lifestyle factors: Diet, exercise, and alcohol use can influence risk.
Impact of Screening
Screening programs have significantly reduced deaths from certain cancers. For example, cervical cancer, once a leading cause of death among American women, has seen a dramatic decline in cases and fatalities over the last four decades due to regular screenings [3].
"The value of screening is incredibly high. Luckily, we can prevent colon cancer in many cases by removing polyps." – Folasade May, MD, PhD, MPhil, UCLA Health gastroenterologist [3]
However, participation rates remain below optimal levels. Only about 65% of Americans undergo colorectal cancer screenings, highlighting the need for greater awareness and accessibility [3].
Next, we’ll take a closer look at the seven key cancer screenings and their importance.
1. Breast Cancer Tests
Detecting breast cancer early can make a huge difference, with local-stage detection offering a 99% five-year survival rate. Considering that one in eight U.S. women will develop breast cancer, regular screening is essential [5].
Primary Screening Methods
Here are the main ways to screen for breast cancer:
- Mammogram: A standard X-ray imaging test recommended annually starting at age 40.
- 3D Mammography: Provides more detailed imaging, especially helpful for dense breast tissue. It also reduces the need for follow-ups and is recommended annually from age 40 [5].
- Clinical Breast Exam: A physical check performed during routine doctor visits.
- Breast MRI: Used annually for individuals at higher risk.
Age-Based Recommendations
- Ages 40-44: Women can opt to start annual mammograms at this stage [6].
- Ages 45-54: Annual mammograms are strongly recommended [6].
- Ages 55 and older: Women can choose to continue yearly mammograms or switch to screenings every other year, as long as they are in good health and expect to live at least another decade [6].
"Finding breast cancer early and getting state-of-the-art cancer treatment are two of the most important ways to prevent deaths from breast cancer." - American Cancer Society [6]
High-Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the risk of breast cancer, requiring more frequent or advanced screening:
- Family History: Especially if a close relative, like a mother or sister, was diagnosed at an early age.
- Genetic Mutations: Such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.
- Previous Radiation: Chest radiation therapy before the age of 30.
- Dense Breast Tissue: May need additional imaging beyond standard mammograms.
Women at higher risk - due to family history, genetic factors, early chest radiation, or dense breasts - should start annual mammograms and MRIs at age 30. While this approach improves detection, it may also result in more false positives [4][6].
Keeping track of your screenings is crucial. Mark them on your health calendar for consistency. Studies show that annual mammograms from ages 40 to 84 can reduce breast cancer deaths by 40% [5].
Next, we’ll look at cervical cancer tests and how they help with early detection.
2. Cervical Cancer Tests
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when regular screenings are part of your healthcare routine.
Screenings are designed to detect changes caused by HPV, stopping cancer before it develops.
Primary Screening Methods
There are two key tests for cervical cancer screening:
- Pap test: Examines cervical cells for any abnormalities.
- HPV test: Looks for high-risk HPV strains that can lead to cervical cancer.
Age-Based Screening Guidelines
Screening recommendations depend on your age:
- Ages 21–29: Pap test every 3 years.
- Ages 30–65: Pap test every 3 years or HPV test every 5 years.
- Over 65: Screening can stop if you've had three normal tests in the past 10 years and no high-risk factors.
Special Considerations
HIV-Positive Women
- Ages 21–29: Pap test every year. After three normal results, testing can shift to every 3 years.
- Ages 30 and older: Annual screening with both an HPV and Pap test, or just a Pap test. If results stay normal, testing can occur every 3 years, but screenings should continue for life [7].
Post-Surgery Guidelines
- Supracervical hysterectomy (cervix intact): Stick to regular screenings.
- Complete hysterectomy (cervix removed): No further testing needed unless the surgery was due to cancer or precancer [7].
After Treating Dysplasia: Continue Pap tests for 20 years following treatment or until age 65.
When to Test More Often
Certain factors may require more frequent screenings, such as:
- Having multiple sexual partners or a partner with multiple partners
- A history of treatment for cervical precancer [7]
Up next, we'll dive into colorectal cancer tests and how they contribute to prevention.
3. Colorectal Cancer Tests
Detecting colorectal cancer early focuses on identifying precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum before they turn into cancer [8]. The American Cancer Society advises people at average risk to start regular screenings at age 45 [9].
Screening Methods
Colorectal cancer screening tests fall into two main categories:
-
Stool-Based Tests
These include the annual FIT or gFOBT tests, and the FIT-DNA test, which is recommended every three years [9]. - Visual Exams
Screening Guidelines by Age
- Ages 45–75: Regular screenings are recommended for individuals in good health with a life expectancy of 10 years or more.
- Ages 76–85: Screening decisions should be personalized, factoring in overall health, life expectancy, and previous screenings.
- Over 85: Routine screenings are generally not recommended; consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
When to Start Earlier Screenings
Certain conditions may call for earlier or more frequent screenings [8]:
- Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Genetic syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome
"The most important thing is to get screened, no matter which test you choose." – American Cancer Society [9]
Follow-Up After Abnormal Results
If a non-colonoscopy test shows abnormal results, a colonoscopy is necessary to evaluate and remove any polyps [8].
Talk to your healthcare provider to create a screening plan that suits your individual health needs and risk factors.
Next: 4. Lung Cancer Tests.
4. Lung Cancer Tests
Lung cancer is the deadliest cancer in the U.S., but annual low-dose CT (LDCT) scans can detect it early, improving survival rates. This screening is especially focused on smokers, who face the highest risk.
Who Should Get Screened
If you're between 50 and 80 years old, have a smoking history of 20 or more pack-years, and currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years, you should consider annual LDCT scans.
Recommended Screening Method
LDCT scans have been shown to reduce lung cancer deaths more effectively than chest X-rays [10].
Other Testing Methods
- Recommended: LDCT scans for their proven ability to lower mortality.
- Not recommended: Chest X-rays and sputum cytology, as they don't provide the same life-saving benefits.
Taking Action
- Assess your smoking history and overall risk.
- Talk to your doctor about the benefits, risks, and any concerns you have regarding LDCT scans.
- Plan for annual LDCT screenings if you're eligible.
Next: 5. Prostate Cancer Tests.
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5. Prostate Cancer Tests
Deciding whether to undergo prostate cancer screening depends on factors like age, race, and family history. These personal risk factors play a key role in determining the right approach.
Prostate cancer screening is designed to catch the disease in its early stages. The two main methods used are the PSA blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE).
Primary Screening Methods
-
PSA Blood Test
PSA levels in your blood can indicate your risk of prostate cancer:- Below 4 ng/mL: Around 15% chance of prostate cancer
- Between 4–10 ng/mL: Around 25% chance of prostate cancer
- Above 10 ng/mL: More than 50% chance of prostate cancer [11]
-
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
During a DRE, a doctor checks the prostate through the rectal wall to feel for any irregularities. While it’s not as sensitive as the PSA test, it can sometimes detect cancers even when PSA levels are normal [11].
When to Start Screening
The age to begin screening varies based on your risk level:
| Risk Level | Starting Age | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Highest Risk | 40 years | Two or more first-degree relatives diagnosed at an early age |
| Increased Risk | 45 years | African American men or one first-degree relative diagnosed before age 65 |
| Average Risk | 50 years | No family history or other known risk factors |
Screening Frequency
- PSA below 2.5 ng/mL: Retest every 2 years
- PSA 2.5 ng/mL or higher: Test annually [12]
Important Considerations
Most guidelines suggest shared decision-making about prostate cancer screening, particularly for men up to age 70. This is because the balance between potential benefits and risks isn’t always clear.
Taking Action
- Talk with your doctor about screening, especially if you’re considering factors like age, race, family history, or medications that might affect PSA levels.
- Make decisions based on your unique risk profile and family history.
Next: 6. Skin Cancer Tests
6. Skin Cancer Tests
Early detection is key when it comes to cancer, and skin cancer is no exception. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S., with around 3 million nonmelanoma cases diagnosed each year [13].
Professional Screening Methods
Doctors typically perform a full-body visual exam, checking moles, birthmarks, and pigmented spots for anything unusual in color, size, or shape. If something looks suspicious, a biopsy may be done. This involves taking a small tissue sample to examine under a microscope for a definitive diagnosis [13]. In addition to these professional exams, make it a habit to check your own skin every month.
Warning Signs to Watch For
The ABCDE method can help you identify concerning moles:
- A: Asymmetry – One half of the mole doesn't match the other.
- B: Border – Edges are uneven or poorly defined.
- C: Color – A mix of colors within a single spot.
- D: Diameter – Larger than 6 mm (about ¼ inch).
- E: Evolving – Any noticeable changes in size, shape, or color.
Tips for Self-Exams
Check your skin monthly and pay attention to:
- Any new growths or spots appearing after age 35.
- Areas that look noticeably different from the rest of your skin.
- Lesions that don't heal after a few weeks.
- Persistent itching or bleeding in a specific area.
If you have a history of skin cancer, regular full-body exams by a healthcare provider are crucial. How often you should go depends on your personal risk factors, so discuss this with your doctor. While apps can help track changes, they should never replace professional evaluations.
Being consistent with these checks increases the chances of catching skin cancer early.
7. Ovarian Cancer Tests
Detecting ovarian cancer early is crucial, but current screening methods have limited effectiveness. Ovarian cancer is the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the U.S. and is the most fatal gynecologic cancer [14].
Current Screening Methods
Several methods are being studied, including pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasound (TVU), and the CA-125 blood test [14].
Limitations
Even when combining CA-125 testing with ultrasound, studies have not shown a reduction in mortality rates. These tests are not perfect - they can yield false positives or negatives - and they assess the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and peritoneal tissue as a group rather than individually [14].
When to Consider Screening
Routine screening is not recommended for women at average risk. However, if you have a family history of ovarian cancer or genetic mutations that may increase your risk, it's worth discussing testing options with your healthcare provider. Together, you can evaluate your risk factors and decide on a surveillance plan tailored to your needs [14].
Quick Reference: Cancer Screening Guide
Here's a quick chart to help you plan your screenings. These intervals are based on general guidelines for average-risk individuals but should be adjusted depending on personal risk factors.
| Cancer Type | When to Start | Frequency | Screening Method | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breast | Ages 40–44 (optional); Age 45 (recommended) | Ages 40–54: yearly; Age 55+: every 2 years or yearly | Mammogram | Watch for changes and report concerns promptly |
| Cervical | Age 25 | HPV/Pap co-test: every 5 years; Pap alone: every 3 years | HPV test and/or Pap test | Continue testing for 25 years after severe pre-cancer diagnosis |
| Colorectal | Age 45 | Stool tests (FIT/gFOBT): yearly; FIT-DNA: every 3 years; Colonoscopy: every 10 years; Sigmoidoscopy/CT colonography: every 5 years | Colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, stool tests | Choose the test that fits your needs and preferences |
| Lung | Ages 50–80 (for high-risk individuals) | Yearly | Low-dose CT scan | Recommended for those at higher risk |
| Prostate | Age 45 (higher risk); Age 50 (average risk) | Based on shared decision-making | PSA blood test (may include rectal exam) | Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor |
| Skin | Start at age 18 | Monthly self-checks; yearly professional exams | Visual skin exam | Regular self-monitoring is important |
| Ovarian | Based on individual risk | Depends on genetic or family risk | CA‑125 blood test; transvaginal ultrasound | Screening primarily for those at higher risk |
Next, find out how to organize these screenings in your calendar to stay on track.
Managing Your Screening Schedule
Once you've selected your tests, it's time to get organized. Here's how to stay on top of your screenings:
1. Set Your Timeline
Check the screening guide and talk to your healthcare provider to pick dates that fit your personal health profile. Factors like family history, genetics, and lifestyle can all play a role. If you're between 76 and 85, discuss with your provider whether continuing screenings makes sense for you.
"Regular screening gives you the best chance of finding cancer early when it's small and before it has spread." [2]
2. Use Reminder Tools
Take advantage of tools like NeverMissHealth. Their system can send email reminders, sync with your calendar, and keep track of test dates, results, and provider notes. They even offer a Lifetime Access plan for a one-time fee, making it easy to stay organized.
As guidelines change, make sure to adjust your schedule to stay up to date.
Next Steps
Take the first step by scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider to develop a screening plan tailored specifically to you.
At your visit, go over your family medical history, talk about personal risk factors like smoking, genetics, and lifestyle, and decide on the right screening intervals based on current recommendations.
Regular screenings play a key role in catching potential issues early, which can greatly improve treatment options and results.
If you notice any unusual changes between screenings, let your provider know right away - addressing concerns early can make a big difference.
Reach out to your healthcare provider today to get started on your personalized cancer screening plan.