Cancer screenings for women include mammograms, colonoscopy, and Pap tests, to name a few. These cancer screenings vary by risk and age, so it’s important to know when the appropriate time is to get them scheduled. Jessica Moriarty, a certified nurse practitioner from Avera Marshall explains cancer risk as well as how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
What are common cancer risks that women shouldn't overlook?
I think the number one cancer risk for women is probably related to their daily lifestyle, so there is always genetics, but your daily lifestyle really plays into your risk for cancer. Whether that be smoking, drinking, and the other parts we are seeing are obesity, and what people are eating unfortunately. We have a diet that is very high in preservatives, and we are finding that with those higher preservative diets, we are seeing more colon cancers earlier in life.
Are there any specific cancers women should be aware of?
The number one cancers for women are of course breast cancer, then also the gynecologic cancers such as uterine, ovarian cancers. Then colon cancers are just as high. The next layers are probably lung cancer.
What cancer screenings should women have on their checklist as they age?
In your 20s you should start HPV screening and Pap smears. At 40 you should be starting your mammograms, and 45 should be the colon cancer screening. We do recommend a colonoscopy.
What should women be doing to keep their health in check?
The biggest thing is balance. Having a lifestyle of balance, whether that be balance in what you eat and making sure you're getting in a healthy diet, as well as any alcohol use and avoiding smoking are the best things you can do to help prevent any further risk for cancer.
Learn more about cancer screenings and cancer care at Avera
