Cancer screening tests are meant to identify cancer or precancerous areas before there are any signs or symptoms and, usually, when treatments are most successful. Multiple organizations have developed guidelines for cancer screening for women. Even though these guidelines differ a little between various organizations, they envelop the same fundamental screening tests for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers and recommend starting as early as the late teens.
Ages 21-29
- You must get a Pap test after every three years to check for cervical cancer.
- Remember to have a clinical breast exam every one to three years to notice any signs of breast cancer early at the age of 25.
Ages 30-39
- Go for a clinical breast exam every one to three years to inspect signs for breast cancer.
- Ensure to get a Pap test and HPV test done after every five years to know any signs of cervical cancer and HPV.
Ages 40-49
- Consider getting a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year to check for breast cancer.
- You must get a Pap test and HPV test every five years to see any cervical cancer and HPV signs.
- If you are a black woman, ensure to get a colonoscopy every 10 years, from the age of 45. Other options include one of the following:
- virtual colonoscopy every five years
- stool-based DNA test every three years
- stool-based test every year
Age 50 and older
- It would be best if you consider getting a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year to check for breast cancer.
- Make sure to go for a Pap test and HPV test every five years to see any signs of cervical cancer and HPV. Consult your doctor regarding which type of screening is suitable for you after the age of 65.
- From the age of 50, you must opt for a colonoscopy test every 10 years to check for colorectal cancer. Other options may include ONE of the following:
- virtual colonoscopy every five year
- stool-based DNA test every three years
- stool-based test every year
