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CANCER SCREENING

Screening Guidelines

Based on U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations.

These are general guidelines. Speak with your physician about what is right for you.

Recommended Screening for Women

Breast Cancer
Mammogram every 1 to 2 years
Age 40 (discuss with physician)
Cervical Cancer
Pap smear every 3 years OR HPV test every 5 years
Ages 21 - 65
Colorectal Cancer
Colonoscopy (every 10 years) or stool-based tests (annually)
Ages 45 - 75
Lung Cancer
Low-dose CT scan (for current/former heavy smokers)
Ages 50 - 80

Recommended Screening for Men

Prostate Cancer
PSA blood test (discuss risks and benefits with physician)
Ages 55 - 69
Colorectal Cancer
Colonoscopy (every 10 years) or stool-based tests (annually)
Ages 45 - 75
Lung Cancer
Low-dose CT scan (for current/former heavy smokers)
Ages 50 - 80

Children & Young Adults

Routine cancer screening is generally not recommended for children and young adults unless they have specific genetic syndromes or a strong family history of early-onset cancer.

However, it is important to be aware of unusual symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, unusual lumps, or prolonged fatigue, and to discuss these with a pediatrician or primary care physician.

High-Risk Individuals

If you have a strong family history of cancer, known genetic mutations (such as BRCA1/2 or Lynch syndrome), or previous radiation therapy, you may be considered "high-risk."

High-risk individuals often need to start screening at an earlier age, be screened more frequently, or use different screening methods (such as MRI in addition to mammography for breast cancer). Consult with a genetic counselor or oncologist to develop a personalized screening plan.

Source: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Guidelines are subject to change. Always consult your healthcare provider.