Healthy Living:

American Cancer Society

Guidelines for Cancer Screening

Cancer-related checkups every 3 years for people age 20-40, every year if over 40. People at higher risk for certain cancers may need to have more frequent tests.

Breast

• Self-exam every month for women age 20 or over
• Exams by doctor every 3 years for women age 20-40, every year if over 40 (should be done close to time of mammogram)
• Mammogram every year for women age 40 or over

Female Reproductive System

• Pelvic exam and PAP test every year for women who are, or who have been, sexually active or have reached age 18
• After 3 or more consecutive satisfactory normal exams the PAP test may be performed less frequently at the doctor's discretion.
• Endometrial tissue sample at menopause if at risk.

Colon/Rectum

People age 50 or over without any risk factors for colorectal cancer:

• Fecal Occult Blood Test every year AND Flexible Sigmoidoscopy every 5 years

  or

• Double Contrast Barium Enema every 5-10 years

  or

• Colonoscopy every 10 years

If you have any of the following Seven Warning Signals, please see your doctor without delay:

1. Change in bowel or bladder habits
2. A sore that does not heal
3. Unusual bleeding or discharge
4. Thickening or lump in breast or elsewhere
5. Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing
6. Obvious change in wart or mole
7. Nagging cough or hoarseness

 

 

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