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Keep track of your important cancer screenings with this handy download

Keep track of your important cancer screenings with this handy download

Cancer rates are increasing in people under 50. This makes it all the more important to stay up to date on preventive examinations in middle age or even earlier for certain types of cancer.

“Detecting lung, colon and breast cancer at an early stage allows for less aggressive treatment, which can help patients live better and longer,” says Victor Gonzalez, MD, radiation oncologist at PeaceHealth in Bellingham, Washington. “It’s really a better situation all around.”

Because early-stage cancer patients may not show symptoms, regular checkups are the best way to detect it.

This downloadable wallet card helps you keep track of when it’s time to get screened for common cancers like breast, colon, lung and prostate cancer.

When should you start the examination?

Here’s a look at the milestones to consider during common adult cancer screenings:

Age 25:

  • People with a cervix begin screening for cervical cancer. This includes a physical examination (Pap smear) by a primary care doctor or obstetrician/gynecologist.

Age 40:

  • People at average risk of breast cancer start having an annual mammogram. This imaging test takes about 30 minutes to capture detailed images of your breast tissue.

Age 45:

  • Anyone who has an average risk of colon cancer should start with regular checkups. This may include sending in a test using a stool sample or a one-day procedure called a colonoscopy.

Age 50:

  • If you are at average risk for prostate cancer, talk to your doctor about regular screenings. This includes a blood test. It takes a few minutes to collect a sample and a few days to get the results.
  • Start screening for lung cancer if you have smoked at least one pack per day for a year. This is usually a type of 3D imaging called CT (computed tomography). It takes 30-60 minutes to create detailed images of your lungs.

Talk to your GP about these and other tests that may be suitable for you based on your age, health or family history. They can only take a few minutes and the benefits are immeasurable.