A Guide to Cancer Screenings as You Age

Timing is everything when it comes to recommended cancer screenings. If you have put off any screening, be it a mammogram or colonoscopy, now’s the time to schedule yours.

“Many cancers can be treated – or cured – if detected in a timely manner,” said Chad Thury, DO, a family medicine physician at Avera Medical Group Family Health Center in Sioux Falls.

Thury, who also serves as Medical Director for Clinic Quality and Innovation, said primary care providers can help navigate your personal cancer screening guidelines.

Cancer Screenings by Age – Follow the Guidelines

It is important to note that cancer screening guidelines provide recommendations for average-risk patients. The recommendations include:

At Age 21

• Pap and HPV tests for women, starting at age 21
• This exam screens for cervical cancer
• Women younger than 30 should have one every three years
• For women, ages 30-65, a Pap test plus HPV test every five years
• Stop at age 65 if you had 10 years of normal tests

At Age 40

• Mammogram, for women ages 40-85
• This exam looks for breast cancer
• Women should get one every year unless your doctor determines otherwise. The Avera High-Risk Breast Cancer Prevention Clinic is available to people with a family history or other risk factors.
• Mobile 3-D mammography services are available at outreach sites.
• Women age 85 and older should talk to their provider about the benefits of continued testing.

At Age 45

• Colonoscopy for everyone ages 45-75
• This exam screens for colorectal (colon) cancer
• Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard of screening
• Alternative screenings are available, but most would necessitate a colonoscopy for any concerning results.
• Colonoscopy should occur annually every 10 years or more frequently if a doctor recommends it
• Men and women age 75 and older should talk to their provider about the benefits of continued testing.

At Age 50

• Lung cancer screening for everyone ages 50-77
• This low-dose CT scan looks for abnormal areas in lungs that might be cancer
• This screening is for people with a smoking history of 20 packs in a year or have quit in last 15 years

At Age 55

• Prostate cancer screening for men ages 55-70
• This test screens for prostate cancer
• A primary care doctor can help you determine the best personal screening schedule

You should also screen for skin cancer once a year with your provider.

Screening Recommendations Can Include Factors Other than Your Age

Your family’s history of cancer, your ethnicity and/or your inherited genetics can affect when you should get screened. For people in higher-risk categories, screening recommendations will vary.

“No two patients are alike, so it’s always good to consult with your provider on your risks, history and schedule,” Thury said.

Keep Cancer Screenings on Your Radar and Plan Ahead

A surefire way to start the cancer screening process properly is by selecting a primary care provider and developing a relationship. In some cases, even a year’s delay can let cancer get a foothold on your health. Screenings can stop it.

“Develop a relationship with your provider. It can set you up for better health over the course of your lifetime,” said Thury.

It’s important to choose an provider who you feel comfortable talking with. Get tips on choosing a primary provider.