Regular cancer screenings play a major role in early detection — and early detection greatly increases survival rates. As people age, their risk for certain cancers rises, making routine tests such as mammograms, colonoscopies, prostate screenings, and skin checks essential tools for protecting long‑term health.
Talking with your doctor about the screenings recommended for your age and risk factors can help you catch potential problems earlier, when treatment is most effective.
Understanding Cancer
Cancer is one of the most common yet serious health conditions in the U.S. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 2 million people will be diagnosed with cancer in 2026. How well someone responds to treatment often depends on how early the cancer is found and whether it has spread.
Most common cancer types
- Colorectal cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Melanoma (the most serious form of skin cancer)
Cancer begins when abnormal cells grow out of control. These cells crowd out healthy cells, preventing them from functioning normally. Although cancer may start in one area, it can spread to other parts of the body.
Benefits of Early Cancer Detection
Early detection can dramatically improve survival rates. When cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, before it spreads, treatment options are generally more effective.
Examples of early‑stage survival benefits
- Breast cancer:
- 99% five‑year survival rate when detected at its most localized stage
- 87% survival rate when it has spread to nearby areas
- 32% survival rate when it has spread to distant parts of the body
- Colon cancer:
- Over 90% five‑year survival rate when detected early
- Drops to 15% if found after significant spread
These differences highlight why routine screenings save lives.
Cancer Screenings by Type
Your doctor will recommend screenings based on your age, gender, family history, and other risk factors. Most insurance plans — including Medicare and Medicaid — cover many preventive screenings in full.
Breast Cancer Screening
The American Cancer Society recommends:
- Ages 45–54: Annual mammograms
- Age 55+: Mammograms every other year, or continue yearly
- Higher‑risk women: May begin screening at age 40
- (Risk factors include family history or genetic indicators)
Colon Cancer Screening
Most adults should begin colon cancer screening at age 45.
Those with a family history or specific risk factors may need to start at age 40.
Screening options include:
- Colonoscopy: Examines the entire colon; usually repeated every 10 years
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Examines part of the lower colon. Done every 5 years.
- Stool or blood tests: Look for signs of cancer; done every 1–3 years
Your doctor can help determine which test is best for you.
Skin Cancer Screening
There are three common types of skin cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Melanoma (the most serious type)
Basal and squamous cell cancers are highly treatable when caught early. Melanoma can spread more quickly, making early detection crucial.
ABCDE: A simple guide for self‑checks
- A — Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
- B — Border: Irregular or blurred edges
- C — Color: Multiple colors within one spot
- D — Diameter: About the size of a pencil eraser
- E — Evolving: Any change in size, shape, or color
Adults 20+ should regularly check their skin and consider annual full‑body checks with a dermatologist.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Men should talk with their doctor at age 50 about prostate cancer screening.
Screening usually includes a PSA blood test:
- Elevated PSA can signal possible cancer
- A biopsy is used to confirm diagnosis
Cervical Cancer Screening
Screenings should begin at age 25.
Options include:
- HPV test: Every 5 years
- Pap test: Every 3 years
- HPV + Pap co-test: As recommended
Women who have had a total hysterectomy do not need screening.
Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer is strongly linked to smoking.
Exposure to secondhand smoke and certain substances (like radon or asbestos) can also increase risk.
Early detection improves outcomes:
- 65% five‑year survival rate when detected early
- 10% when detected at a later stage
USPSTF Lung Cancer Screening Guidelines
- Age: 50–80
- Smoking history: 20+ pack years
- Smoking status: Current smoker or quit within the past 15 years
- Screening method: Annual low‑dose CT scan
Even if you don’t meet these criteria, talk to your doctor if you have other lung cancer risks, such as long-term secondhand smoke exposure.
Take Charge of Your Health
Cancer screenings can save your life by finding problems early — often before symptoms appear. If you have concerns about your cancer risk or aren’t sure which screenings you need, talk to your health care provider. They can guide you toward the right tests based on your personal health profile.
