Early Detection Saves Lives: The Essential Cancer Screenings You Can’t Afford to Skip 

Early detection and screening are some of the most powerful tools we have to help prevent cancer. Regular screenings can catch cancer early, often before symptoms appear. The earlier a cancer is caught, the easier it is to treat, and the better the outcomes are likely to be.  Staying proactive about your health and keeping up with recommended screenings are critical for cancer prevention and early detection. Different screening methods are recommended based on individual risk factors, family history, and age. If you don’t know what screenings are right for you, make sure to talk with your doctor about what is most appropriate for your individual medical history. 

Breast Cancer  

Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. Early detection through screening can significantly improve outcomes. In fact, the survival rate for a stage I breast cancer diagnosis is >99%. 

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends monthly self-exams and clinical breast exams every 1-3 years for women in their 20s and 30s. For those at average risk, mammograms (an X-ray imaging test performed by a healthcare provider) are suggested every two years from ages 40-74, with annual screenings advised for women 45-54. After 55 years, individuals can choose annual or biennial mammograms based on medical guidance. Higher-risk women may require earlier, more frequent screenings or additional imaging like breast MRIs. Risk factors that might make you higher risk include genetics, family history, individual history, or having dense breasts. Make sure to talk with your doctor to come up with a proactive screening plan that is right for you. 

Colorectal Cancer  
 
There are several approved and recommended screening options for colorectal cancer. The most important thing to remember is that colorectal cancer screening for average risk adults should start at 45 – so don’t put it off! The gold standard screening for colorectal cancer is colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon to directly examine for polyps or cancer. Sometimes, if polyps are identified during a colonoscopy, they can be removed immediately. Colonoscopy screening should be done once every 10 years for average risk adults.   There are also several non-invasive alternatives – these include stool DNA tests (e.g., Cologuard) and Fecal Immunochemical Testing (FIT), both of which can be done at home. These types of tests involve taking an at-homestool sample (yes, we’re talking about poop), and then mailing the sample back to a lab for processing. It is recommended that a stool DNA test should be repeated every 3 years, while a FIT test should be done annually.  Recent trends have shown that there is a higher incidence of colorectal cancer in patients under the age of 50. The best way for us to combat this trend is to be proactive and vigilant about getting screened! Make sure to talk to your doctor to understand what the best options for you are.  

Cervical Cancer  
 
Cervical cancer screening is key to early detection and prevention. Both pap-smear tests and HPV tests are approved for screening. Both tests need to be administered at a healthcare provider’s office and will involve having a sample taken directly from the cervix. A Pap test detects abnormal cells, while anHPV test identifies high-risk virus strains that are linked to cervical cancer. Sometimes co-testing, which combines both, can be done. Guidelines recommend a Pap test every three years for women 21-29, and for those 30-65, an HPV test every five years, co-testing every five years, or a Pap test every three years.  One of the major causes of cervical cancer is HPV infection. As such, in addition to getting screened regularly, HPV vaccination is an important tool for preventing cervical cancer. In fact, in countries where HPV vaccination adoption is high, we are seeing lower and lower rates of cervical cancer within the population. Proof that prevention is possible!  

Prostate Cancer 

Prostate cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in men, affecting about 1 in 9 men in their lifetime. The primary screening tests for prostate cancer are the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE) – though DREs are becoming less commonly used in recent years. A PSA test is a simple blood test, while a DRE is a physical exam, both are performed by a doctor. Because some prostate cancers progress slowly, discussing the benefits and risks of screening with your doctor is essential to determine the most appropriate screening for you. Screening is generally recommended for men 55 and older, with high-risk individuals starting earlier. Risk factors for prostate cancer may include genetics, individual or family history, and racial background. It is important to note, the risk for prostate cancer is higher for African American men – as such, prostate cancer screening is recommended to start earlier (at age 45) for African American men.    

Lung Cancer 

While lung cancer screening is not recommended for the general population, it is an important screening tool for individuals who are smokers or how have a significant history of smoking. It goes without saying, smoking cessation is an important part of lung cancer prevention. However, the next best thing to do for individuals who smoke (or have smoked) is to be proactive about their lung cancer screening. Lung cancer screening is done through a low-dose lung CT (computed tomography). A low-dose lung CT is an imaging test that uses a small dose of radiation to detect abnormal nodules in the lungs. Screening is advised for adults with a significant history of smoking, and early detection can greatly improve treatment outcomes.  If you are a smoker or have a greater than 20 pack-year smoking history, talk to your doctor about getting your lung cancer screening done regularly. 

Taking care of your health starts with small but important steps—like staying up to date with cancer screenings. Staying on top of your screenings isn’t just another task on your to-do list; it’s a powerful way to protect your health and your future. Don’t wait for symptoms. Don’t put it off. Talk to your doctor, make that appointment, and encourage your loved ones to do the same. The best time to act is now—because early detection gives you the best chance to fight, to heal, and to live.