Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with more than 1.8 million new cases reported in the latest incidence data (2022) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Approximately 50% of cancers are diagnosed when they are already in an advanced stage — but that number can be reduced with the help of cancer screenings.
The Benefits of Cancer Screenings
Cancer screenings can identify some types of cancer and precancerous cell changes before you experience symptoms. This critical early detection allows for earlier intervention at more manageable stages, enhancing the treatment’s effectiveness and increasing the likelihood of survival.
USPSTF Guidelines for Cancer Screenings
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is a panel of independent preventive and evidence-based medicine experts. It provides screening guidelines for breast, cervical, colorectal (colon), and lung cancers to help reduce cancer mortality rates through early detection. The CDC also supports these recommendations, which are listed below.
Always talk to your doctor about the screenings and frequencies that are right for you and your health.
Breast Cancer Screening Tests and Recommendations
Regular mammograms, which are X-rays of the breast, are the best way to detect breast cancer early in most women. Some women with an increased risk, such as those with dense breast tissue, a recent breast cancer diagnosis, or a family history of breast cancer, may require additional screening using MRI.
USPSTF recommendation
- Women ages 40 to 74 and at average risk for breast cancer should get a mammogram every two years. Those with an increased risk may require more frequent screenings.
Cervical Cancer Screening Recommendations
Cervical cancer screenings can include a Pap test (or Pap smear) and the human papillomavirus (hrHPV) test and help prevent and detect this cancer in earlier stages. Pap tests identify cervical precancer on the cervix — cells that appear abnormal but are not yet cancerous — while the hrHPV test detects the virus that can cause cell changes.
The frequency of screenings may depend on risk factors, test results, and doctor recommendations.
USPSTF recommendation
- Women ages 21 to 29 should have a Pap test every three years.
- Women ages 30 to 65 should discuss their testing options with their doctors. These options include:
- A Pap test every three years.
- An hrHPV test every five years.
- Cotesting with both a Pap and an hrHPV test every five years.
- Women younger than 21, women older than 65 with at least three normal or negative Pap tests or two hrHPV tests in the past 10 years (with the most recent test occurring within five years), and women who have had a hysterectomy do not need screening.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations
Colorectal cancer, or colon cancer, most often develops from abnormal growths called precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum. Screening tests like a colonoscopy, stool test, or CT colonography can identify these polyps so they can be removed before becoming cancerous. Most people should begin screenings at 45, but those who have increased risk factors such as inflammatory bowel disease, a personal or family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, or specific genetic syndromes should talk to their doctor about when to begin these tests and how often to schedule them.
USPSTF recommendation
- Adults ages 45 to 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer.
- Adults ages 76 to 85 may be screened considering their overall health, prior screening history, and preferences.
Lung Cancer Screening Recommendations
Adults of a certain age with a heavy history of smoking have an increased risk of developing lung cancer. A low-dose CT scan, or LDCT, uses a low amount of radiation from an X-ray machine and is the only recommended screening test.
USPSTF recommendation
- Adults ages 50 to 80 who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years should be screened for lung cancer annually. A pack-year is defined as smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for one year.
- Screening should be discontinued once a person has not smoked for 15 years or has a health problem that limits life expectancy or the ability to have lung surgery.
Take Control of Your Health
Regular cancer screenings are a cornerstone of preventive care, enabling early detection and treatment that can save lives. Many cancer screening tests are covered by insurance, including Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid Program), Medicare, and private health plans. You can confirm your benefits by contacting your health plan or your regional accountable entity (RAE) for Health First Colorado members. Following evidence-based guidelines and talking with your doctor about your risk factors can help determine the appropriate tests and cancer screening schedule for you.