Cancer Screening Guidelines
When cancer is detected early, before the disease spreads, many patients can be cured. That's why the American Cancer Society recommends the following screening guidelines for people at average risk for cancer. If you have symptoms, a family history or are at high risk, see your physician about the timing and frequency of the tests.
Screenings for Men and Women
Cancer Related Check-ups
Men and women between the ages of 20-39 should have cancer-related check-ups every three years, then annually after 40. These check-ups are regular physical exams performed by the patient's primary care physician. They should include examinations for cancers of the:
- thyroid
- testicles or ovaries
- lymph nodes
- oral cavity
- skin
Colorectal Cancer
Both men and women should begin having regular colorectal cancer screenings at age 50.
Just for Women
Breast Cancer
Women should begin performing monthly breast self-exams at age 20, and women between the ages of 20-39 should have clinical breast exams every three years. At age 40, women should begin having annual clinical breast exams and annual mammograms.
Cervical Cancer
Women who are sexually active or 18 or older should have an annual Pap test and pelvic examination. Women 70 and older who have had three or more normal Pap tests may elect to stop having these screenings.
Just for Men
Testicular Cancer
All adolescent boys and adult males should perform monthly testicular self-exams.
Prostate Cancer
Beginning at age 50, all men should also have these prostate cancer screenings:
- annual digital rectal exams
- annual prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood tests
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