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Early detection is important. You can improve your chances of finding problems early by scheduling regular checkups with your doctor.

The cancer screening recommendations below are intended for individuals with average risk.
 
If you have a family history of cancer, certain genetic traits like BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome, or other major risk factors, you may be considered high-risk and should talk to a genetic counselor and your doctor. They can help you find the best screening plan for you.
 
Keep in mind that your doctor might recommend a different testing schedule based on your personal risk for certain cancers. Talk with your doctor to create a screening plan that fits your age, family history, lifestyle, and job.
 
These recommendations are based on the Facts & Figures insights provided by the American Cancer Society.

Breast Cancer Screening (Women)

Ages 40-44

Recommended Screening: Mammography (optional)

Frequency: Women may choose annual screening

Ages 45-54

Recommended Screening: Mammography

Frequency: Annual Screening

Ages 55+

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)

Ages 25-65

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

Ages 65+

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)

Starting at age 45

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)

Ages 50-80

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)

Ages 45+ for African American men and Those with a Family History

Recommended Screening: PSA test with/without digital rectal exam

Frequency: Discuss screening options through shared decision-making with a healthcare provider.

Ages 50+ All Others

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)

Those in or past Menopause

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.

Learn more about Endometrial cancer, including the signs & symptoms. 

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