5 Common Types of Cancer to Screen for At Different Stages of Life

Disclaimer: The following article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk to your doctor about which cancer screenings are right for you, and do not make changes to your medication or lifestyle without first discussing with your doctor.

Understanding the importance of regular cancer screenings can help detect potential health issues early when they are most treatable- sometimes even before cancer symptoms arise. Below, we summarize key cancers and their screening recommendations according to the American Cancer Society's guidelines.

Before continuing below, AstroDoc providers emphasize the importance of talking to your primary care doctor about your family history of cancer. If you have a history of the cancers discussed below or others in your family, you may be at increased risk, making early screening even more important. The doctors at AstroDoc can guide you through the screenings you need, if any.

1. Colon Cancer

Colon cancer screening is essential for early detection and prevention. Here’s how guidelines vary by age:

• Ages 21-29: Testing is not necessary unless you are at higher than average risk due to family history or genetic conditions. If you're at increased risk, consult a healthcare provider.
  
  

• Ages 30-39: Similar to the 21-29 age group, those at average risk do not require testing. If you have risk factors, speak with a healthcare provider.
  
  

• Ages 40-49: Average-risk individuals should begin testing at age 45. There are multiple options for screening, so discuss the best approach with your doctor.
  
  

• Ages 50-64: Continue regular testing if you haven’t already started. The choice of tests and frequency should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
  
  

• Ages 65+: Screening is recommended up to age 75. Between ages 76 and 85, consult a healthcare provider to determine if testing is necessary. After age 85, screening is generally not recommended.

2. Breast Cancer

Breast cancer screening helps identify potential issues early. Here’s what the guidelines suggest:

• Ages 21-29: Regular testing is not needed, but all women should know how their breasts normally look and feel, reporting changes to a healthcare provider.
  
  

• Ages 30-39: Testing is not typically recommended unless you are at higher risk due to lifestyle or genetics. Awareness of your breast health remains important.
  
  

• Ages 40-49: Women aged 40-44 can choose to start annual mammograms. From age 45, yearly mammograms are recommended.
  
  

• Ages 50-64: Women aged 50-54 should get yearly mammograms. Starting at age 55, switch to mammograms every two years or continue yearly screenings.
  
  

• Ages 65+: Mammograms are recommended every two years or annually if preferred. Those at higher risk may need additional testing.

3. Cervical Cancer

Regular cervical cancer screening is crucial for early detection:

• Ages 21-29: No screening is needed before age 25. Starting at 25, individuals with a cervix should have a primary HPV test every five years or alternative screenings like co-testing or Pap tests.
  
  

• Ages 30-39: Continue with a primary HPV test every five years or opt for co-testing or Pap tests every three to five years.
  
  

• Ages 40-49: Follow the same screening guidelines as the 30-39 age group.
  
  

• Ages 50-64: Maintain regular testing as outlined above unless you’ve had surgery removing the cervix for non-cancer-related reasons.
  
  

• Ages 65+: No further testing is required if you’ve had normal results for the past 10 years or had your cervix removed for non-cancer reasons.

4. Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer screening is a personalized decision:

• Ages 21-29: No testing is recommended.
  
  

• Ages 30-39: Testing is not necessary.
  
  

• Ages 40-49: Starting at age 45, Men at higher risk (e.g., African American men or those with a family history of prostate cancer) should discuss screening with a healthcare provider. If you have multiple risk factors, talk to your doctor about screening at age 40.
  
  

• Ages 50-64: Men at average risk should talk with their doctor about the potential benefits and risks of screening.
  
  

• Ages 65+: Screening decisions should be based on overall health and life expectancy, not age alone.

5. Lung Cancer

Lung cancer screening is crucial for those with a history of smoking:

• Ages 21-49: Screening is not recommended.
  
  

• Ages 50+: Annual scans are advised for individuals aged 50-80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history, current smokers and those who quit within the past 15 years.

Be Proactive

By following these age-specific guidelines, you can take proactive steps toward maintaining your health and addressing cancer risks early. 

The doctors at AstroDoc can guide you based on your personal risk factors and family history. Sign up today to get started with your cancer screening journey!