CANCER SCREENING REMINDERS
Date: 08/22/23
In the United States, one in two men and one in three women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime¹. Early detection is key. Discuss the importance of annual exams and preventive cancer screenings with your patients.
Breast Cancer
Early detection of breast cancer makes it easier to treat. Everyone should know what their breasts normally look and feel like. Encourage your patients to report any changes. Screening guidelines for women at average risk for best cancer are noted below.
Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines²
Age (years) | Recommendation |
|---|---|
40-44 | Have the option of starting a mammogram annually |
45-54 | Annual mammogram |
55-and older | Can switch to a mammogram every other year or continue annual mammograms |
Colorectal Cancer
Screening for colorectal cancer should begin soon after the age of 45. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends adults aged 45 to 74 be screened for colorectal cancer or earlier if there is family history of colorectal cancer, history of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or a presence of a genetic syndrome increasing risk of colorectal cancer3.
Cervical Cancer
A Pap test is recommended beginning at age 21, continuing every three years if the results are normal4. Beginning at age 25, a cervical Human Papillomavirus screening is recommended, continuing every five years if results are normal5. After age 65, patients may not need regular screenings if they have a history of normal screening results, or if the cervix has been removed as part of a total hysterectomy.
Prostate Cancer
Begin discussions about the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screenings at the age of 45 for patients that are at high risk of developing prostate cancer. The USPSTF recommends providers discuss the benefits and risks of prostate specific antigen (PSA) screening with those who are at average risk beginning at age 556. After age 70, the USPSTF does not recommend PSA screenings.
References:
1. All About Cancer. Accessed August 18, 2023.
2. American Cancer Society Recommendations for the Early Detection of Breast Center. Accessed July 12, 2023.
3. What Should I Know About Screening. Accessed July 12, 2023.
4. What Should I Know About Screening. Accessed July 12, 2023.
5. Cancer Screening Guidelines by Age. Accessed July 12, 2023.
6. Prostate Cancer Screening. Accessed July 12, 2023.