Early detection is important. You can improve your chances of finding problems early by scheduling regular checkups with your doctor.
Breast Cancer Screening (Women)
Recommended Screening: Mammography (optional)
Frequency: Women may choose annual screening
Recommended Screening: Mammography
Frequency: Annual Screening
Recommended Screening: Mammography
Frequency: Biennial screening (every 2 years) standard, but annual screening is an acceptable option if preferred and in good health with a life expectancy of 10+ years
Note: Mammogram with digital breast tomosynthesis is recommended.
Learn more about Mammograms on our blog.
Cervical Cancer Screening (Women)
Recommended Screening: Primary HPV DNA test (strongly preferred due to higher accuracy), OR
Pap & HPV co-test (if HPV test unavailable), OR
Pap test alone (least preferred)
Frequency: Every 5 Years
Recommended Screening: Discontinue screening if results have been negative in the past 10 years, with the most recent test in the past 5 years
At any age, with a hysterectomy, recommended screening: No screening if no history of cervical cancer or CIN2+ in the past 25 years
Colorectal Cancer Screening (Everyone)
Recommended Screening: Colonoscopy (gold standard) detects and removes polyps during the procedure
Frequency: Every 10 Years
OR
Recommended Screening: High-sensitivity gFOBT or FIT
Frequency: Annual
OR
Recommended Screening: Multi-target stool DNA test (MT-sDNA)
Frequency: Every 3 Years
OR
Recommended Screening: Flexible sigmoidoscopy
Frequency: Every 5 Years
OR
Recommended Screening: CT Colonography
Frequency: Every 5 Years
Note: All positive screening tests (other than a colonoscopy) should be followed up with a colonoscopy.
Lung Cancer Screening (High-Risk Individuals)
Recommended Screening: Low-dose helical CT (LDCT)
Frequency: Annual screening for current smokers or those who have quit within the past 15 years with a 20+ pack-year smoking history and at least a 5-year life expectancy
Prostate Cancer Screening (Men)
Recommended Screening: PSA test with/without digital rectal exam
Frequency: Discuss screening options through shared decision-making with a healthcare provider.
Recommended Screening: PSA test with/without digital rectal exam
Frequency: Engage in shared decision-making with their healthcare provider to discuss benefits and potential harms if life expectancy is 10+ years.
Endometrial Cancer Screening (For those with a uterus)
Recommended Screening: Risk education and symptom awareness
Frequency: Women entering menopause should be informed about the symptoms and risks of endometrial cancer and promptly report any unexpected vaginal bleeding or spotting to their healthcare provider.
Find More Resources for Dealing with Cancer:
For Patients:
Find practical guidance to help you navigate daily caregiving challenges with clarity and confidence. From communication strategies to self-care reminders, these tips are designed to support you at every step of the cancer journey.
For Caregivers:
Explore resources for each critical phase of cancer treatment and recovery, ensuring you’re never alone on this path. Together, we can empower you to take control of your journey and move forward with confidence.
Explore Cancer Types:
Search by specific cancer types to learn more about signs, symptoms, and risk factors, and identify which may indicate a need for more advanced screening. Use this information to discuss further with your personal care team.
