The following is based on the American Cancer Society’s cancer screening schedules for a few cancers; this list is not exhaustive. Different national standards vary on screenings, such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Consult your physician for a personalized cancer screening schedule based on your health, risks and history.
Breast cancer
Women ages 40 and up should have annual mammograms
Clinical breast exams should happen every three years for women in their 20s and 30s, and annual for women 40 and up
Women should also do slef breast exams – if anything seems abnormal, consult a health care provider immediately
Colon and rectal cancer and polyps
Men and women over 50 should follow one of the following schedules:
Tests that find polyps and cancer:
Flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years,
or a colonoscopy every 10 years,
or a double-contrast barium enema every five years,
or a CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every five years.
Tests that primarily find cancer:
Yearly guaiac-based fecal occult blood test,
or yearly fecal immunochemical test
or a stool DNA test every three years
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer screenings should begin for women at age 21
Women ages 21-29 should have a Pap test done every three years
Women 30-65 should have a Pap test plus an HPV test every five years
Women 65 and older should not have screenings unless recommended by their primary physician
Women who have been vaccinated against HPV should still follow a regular screening schedule
Endometrial (uterine) cancer
Women should watch for unexpected bleeding or spotting and report to their doctor if this occurs. Women may need an annual endometrial biopsy due to their history, and should talk to their doctor.
Lung cancer
Screening is done with a low-dose CT scan of the chest and is typically done for people at risk for lung cancer. These people typically have a family history and/or have a history of smoking cigarettes. Consult a doctor to determine if you are at risk.
Prostate cancer
The American Cancer Society recommends men make an informed decision with their doctor about whether they should be tested for prostate cancer because current research has not yet proven whether the potential benefits of testing outweigh the harm of testing and treatment.
Starting at least at age 50, men should talk to their doctors about prostate cancer risks.
Prevention
Reduce your risks of cancer by:
Exercising regularly
Eating healthy with plenty of fruits and vegetables
Stay away from tobacco products
Limit alcohol consumption
Maintain a healthy weight
Protect your skin by wearing SPF
Know your body, family health history and what you’re at risk for
