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Breast Self-Examination
At age 18 and up, one should sefl-check herself for breast cancer. This includes feeling for lumps in the breast tissue and looking for any visual changes. It is recommended to complete self exams once a month, typically several days after period so breasts are less likely to be swollen. -
Skin Cancer
Starting around the age of 20, one could start checking themselves for skin cancer if spending extended periods of time out in the sun frequently. Look for changes in skin texture and appearance. If abnormalities, see a dermatologist. From there, visit a the dermatologist every six months if diagnosed with skin cancer. -
Breast and Cervical Cancer
Women should continue with self-check breast exams and start having clinical breast exams (CBE). CBEs should be performed every three years for women in their 20s and 30s. Starting at age 21, women should also have a yearly PAP smear taken. This involves removing cells from the cervix to test for abnormalities. -
Cervical Cancer (Pap test and HPV)
At age 30, should continue having a yearly Pap test and begin having an HPV test every five years. Similar tot he PAP test, cells are removed from the cervix and tested specifically for abnormalities related to HPV. After women reach the age of 65, testing for cervical cancer can cease. -
Breast Cancer (mammogram)
Around ages 40 to 44 women can decide to have annual breast screenings with mammograms. If not started by age 45, women should have mammograms yearly. For a mammogram, a special x-ray machine designed to look at breast tissue is used. It compresses the breast tissue between two plates and takes pictures with minimal radiation use. The images will then be used to look for any abnormal cell growth. Women should also continue with self-check breast exams. -
Colon Cancer Part I
Women should start testing for colon cancer around age 50. It is recommended to have a flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years and a colonoscopy every 10 years. A standard colonoscopy is a test where the rectum and entire colon is examined using a colonoscopy while the person is sedated. At the same time air is being pumped to expand the tissue for a better view of the lining. The purpose of the test is to look for abnormal growth. -
Colon Cancer Part II
A sigmoidoscopy, on the other hand, is a test where the rectum and sigmoid colon is examined, usually without sedation of the patient. This test is used to detect abnormal growth in the lower colon. -
Lung Cancer
If you are a heavy smoker, one should be tested for lung cancer starting at age 55-60. For this, a CT scan is used to look at the lung tissue to detect abnormalities and damage. Sputum cytology is also a procedure where a sample of mucus coughed up from the lungs is viewed under a microscope to look for abnormal growth.