This week marks my very first colonoscopy.  Typical screening starts at age 45 and because I have a strong family history for colon cancer, I started early.  Since I’m not at the recommended screening age, I had to take the initiative and advocate for myself; the whole process from inquiry to procedure took almost a year. 

I consider myself well-versed in navigating the medical system and I still found it obstacle-laden to set up my colonoscopy.  This week I want to share a bit about the basics for cancer prevention screening in hopes of reminding us all to keep up with the recommendations. 

When it comes to cancer prevention, screening is up there with not smoking!  Below we look at best practices for screening according to age and for average risk people. Whether we are considered average risk or not is a conversation to be had with your doctor.  This status is typically dependent on genetics, immune status, and/or environmental exposures. 

Cervical Cancer Screening 

• Age 21-29: PAP screening every three years.  This changes if you have a history of abnormal PAPs.

• Ages 30-65: PAP test with HPV testing every five years or PAP testing alone every three years. Which you choose is decided between you and your doctor. 

• Over 65: if you’ve had adequate negative screening, then you’re good to go and can stop the screening.

Breast Cancer Screening

• Screening begins between 40 and 50 years and occurs every 1-2 years until approximately age 75.  Whether you start at 40 or 50 years is a decision between you and your doctor and based on individual risk factors.

Colorectal Cancer

• 45 is the new 50 to start screening for this one with average risks.

Prostate Cancer

• The conversation for screening starts at age 40 for African American men and 50 for all other men of average risk.

Melanoma 

• Age 50 for those with lighter skin.

If you’re like me, your life has somehow been touched by cancer.  Staying informed and up to date with screening is something we can do to be proactive in our health.  I’ve had to be an advocate for myself when it comes to accessing this care and I hope this inspires you to think about your care and start the conversation with your doc.