Cancer screening tests that save lives

One of the most powerful steps you can take for your health is staying up to date on cancer screenings.

For many adults, the most recommended screenings are breast, cervical, colorectal, lung and prostate cancer screenings. These screenings matter because they can find cancer early, before symptoms begin, and possibly save lives.

Why do cancer screenings matter?

In most cases, screenings help detect disease before cancer symptoms begin and can sometimes find precancer. These are changes in the body that are not yet cancer but could turn into cancer over time. Finding cancer earlier often means:

• More treatment options
• Less aggressive treatment
• Better outcomes

Even if you feel fine, screenings can still play an important role in protecting your health.

Cancer screening recommendations are based on age and risk

There is no one-size-fits-all screening plan. The tests you need depend on your age, personal health history and family history.

Most people follow standard screening guidelines based on age. However, you may need to start earlier or be screened more often if you have:

• A family history of cancer
• A known genetic mutation
• Certain lifestyle or environmental risk factors

If you’re not sure what’s right for you, talk with your care team.

Cancer screening tests to know

Cervical cancer screening – Pap test and Human papillomavirus (HPV) test

Cervical cancer screening helps detect changes in the cervix before cancer develops. There are two main tests:

• Pap tests check for abnormal cells.
• HPV tests look for the virus that can lead to cell changes.

Many people begin screening in early adulthood and continue at regular intervals based on age and results. Sometimes both tests are done together.

If results are abnormal your care team will guide you to next steps. In many cases, doctors will use follow-up testing to monitor or treat changes when found early.

Prostate cancer screening – Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

Prostate cancer screening involves a blood test called PSA.

Unlike some other screenings, prostate screening is often based on a shared decision between you and your doctor. This is because screening has both potential benefits and risks.

Some individuals may benefit from starting the conversation earlier, especially those with:

• A family history of prostate cancer
• Higher risk based on personal factors

If you’re considering screening, your doctor can help you weigh the options. Learn more about prostate cancer screening.

Breast cancer screening – Mammogram

Breast cancer screening most often involves a mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast. A mammogram can be either two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) depending on which type of scan you and your doctor choose. For many adults, screening mammography begins around age 40 and continues regularly based on your doctor’s recommendation.

People at higher risk may need:

• Earlier screening
• More frequent mammograms
• Additional imaging, such as breast MRI

A mammogram can find cancer before you can feel a lump. If you’re due for screening, you can schedule a mammogram.

Colorectal cancer screening – Colonoscopy

Colorectal cancer screening includes colon and rectal cancers and is recommended for most adults starting at age 45.There are several screening options, including:

• Colonoscopy is the gold standard because it can both detect and prevent cancer during the same procedure
• Stool-based tests, such as FIT or stool DNA testing
• Blood-based screening test, only recommended if other tests can’t be done, since blood tests can miss precancerous polyps and early cancers

A colonoscopy allows your doctor to look inside the colon and remove precancerous polyps during the same procedure. Learn more about what to expect with a colonoscopy.

People at average risk may prefer at-home stool tests. These can be an effective option for certain individuals, but they need to be done regularly. If a stool test is positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is usually needed.

Explore these colorectal cancer screening options to decide what may be right for you.

Lung cancer screening – Low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan

Lung cancer screening is not recommended for everyone. It is specifically designed for people at higher risk. Screening uses a low-dose CT scan, which creates detailed images of the lungs.

You may qualify if you:

• Are between the age of 50 and 80 and
• Currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years

This type of screening can detect lung cancer early, before symptoms appear. You can learn about lung cancer screening to see if you may be eligible.

When to talk with your care team

It’s a good idea to talk with your care team if you:

• Are unsure which screenings you need
• Have a family history of cancer
• Have new or changing symptoms
• Think you may be due for screening

A conversation can help you understand your personal risk and create a plan that fits your needs.

Taking the next step

Cancer screening is one of the most effective ways to protect your health. Small steps, like keeping up with routine screenings, can make a big difference over time.

If you’re due for screening or have questions, start with talking to your care team. They can help you decide what tests are right for you and when to schedule them.