Don't wait for symptoms: Get screened and help find cancer early

When it comes to cancer, early detection is key. Screenings can find cancerous cells in your body even before symptoms appear. And generally, the earlier you treat cancerous cells, the better the outcome.

Your age, health, family history, lifestyle choices (what you eat, how active you are, whether you smoke), and other factors determine the screenings and exams that are right for you. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss the screenings you need and when you need them.

Don't wait for symptoms: Get screened and help find cancer early

Screenings you should know about

Exámenes de diagnóstico de cáncer colorrectal

Colorectal cancer is preventable and highly treatable, especially if caught early. Most colon cancer cases occur in people older than 50, and screening is recommended starting at age 45. Unfortunately, only half of adults have been screened by their early 50s (age 50–54).

Six different screening tests are available, all of which are effective at finding signs of cancer early, when it's easier to treat. Some tests can be done at home, while others need to be performed in a clinic or at your healthcare provider's office.

Exámenes de diagnóstico de cáncer de mama

Regular mammograms are the most effective tests available to find breast cancer early. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women 40 to 74 years old at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every two years. Younger women should talk to their provider about when to start and how often they should get a mammogram. Women should speak with their provider to weigh the benefits and risks of screening tests when deciding whether to begin getting mammograms before age 40.

Exámenes de diagnóstico de cáncer de cuello uterino

Regular Pap and HPV tests are crucial for detecting cervical cancer early. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women should start getting Pap tests at age 21. If the results are normal, your doctor may recommend waiting three years until your next Pap test.

For those aged 30 to 65, there are several testing options to consider. Talk to your provider about which of them is right for you:

Pap test only – The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women in this age group can opt for a Pap test alone every three years if the results are normal.
HPV test only (primary HPV testing) – ACOG also recommends primary HPV testing every five years for women aged 30 to 65 if the results are normal.
Co-testing (HPV test and Pap test) – Co-testing with both an HPV test and a Pap test every five years is another option recommended by ACOG for women in this age group if both results are normal.

Prostate cancer screening

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men. Screening for prostate cancer usually involves a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and, in some cases, a digital rectal exam (DRE). The American Cancer Society recommends that men discuss the potential benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider starting at age 50. Men at higher risk, such as African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer, should have this discussion starting at age 45.

Take time for your health

Getting screened for potential health issues or cancers can provide peace of mind. Talk to your healthcare provider about which screenings you may need and be sure to get them done. If you need help finding a provider, call your health insurance carrier. If you are a Capital Blue Cross member, MyCare Finder can help you locate one, or you can call Member Services at the number on the back of your member ID card. Capital Blue Cross members can also see the suggested preventive care schedule for screenings, which are covered by your health plan at no cost on most plans.