Cancer Screenings Guidelines
Getting regular screenings is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. That's because the earlier you detect cancer, the easier it is to treat.
When to start cancer screenings and how often will depend on your age, family history and health. Talk with your doctor about your personal risk and the schedule that best fits your needs.
Breast Cancer Screenings
Women in their 20s and 30s: breast exam at least every three years.
Women ages 40 and older: an annual breast exam and an annual mammogram.
Lung Cancer Screenings
Men and women ages 50 to 80 with a high risk of lung cancer: ask your doctor if you could benefit from a lung cancer screening.
Cervical Cancer
Women ages 21 to 29: Pap test every three years.
Women ages 30 to 65: Combined Pap test and HPV test every five years OR Pap test every three years OR HPV test every five years.
Colorectal Cancer
Men and women ages 45 and older: begin screening and then have a colonoscopy every 10 years. (Check with your doctor and insurance provider about screening based on your family history and other risk factors.)
Prostate Cancer
Men age 40 and up: talk with your doctor to make an informed decision on testing, based on personal risk factors.
Our Approach
We know that some cancer screenings may feel daunting or inconvenient. As partners in your health, we're here to answer your questions and help you feel prepared for your screening. We offer convenient locations and quick, accurate results to make your screenings as easy as possible.
Quick, Accurate Results
ProMedica's experts are dedicated to ensuring quick access to accurate cancer screening results.
Here are just a few ways that we demonstrate this commitment:
- Mammograms are read by board-certified and fellowship-trained breast radiologists.
- For colonoscopies, patients with average colon cancer risk can save time and money by not needing an initial consult.
- Most cancer screening results are sent to your provider in 24-48 hours.
Convenient Screening Locations
ProMedica's many locations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan help you get in faster for a screening. Some cancer screenings, like prostate exams and cervical cancer screenings, may be done in your doctor's office. Others, such as mammograms and lung cancer screenings, can be easily scheduled by phone after you receive your doctor's referral. We'll help you find a time and location that is best for you, and help you prepare for your appointment.
ProMedica Physicians: Your Partner in Prevention
Recommendations for cancer screenings depend on individual factors. That's why it's best to start the discussion with your primary care provider. They can recommend screenings and other ways to reduce your risk for cancer.
