The Center Insights
Women's Health Month: Cancer Screenings Every Woman Should Prioritize
Overview
Women's health month is an important reminder for women to prioritize cancer screenings that can help detect disease early, when treatment is often most effective. Regular screenings play a critical role in identifying cancers before symptoms appear and improving long-term outcomes.
During Women's Health Month, taking time to understand recommended screenings and when to schedule them can help women stay proactive about their health.
Routine cancer screenings can help detect certain cancers at an early stage or even prevent them altogether.
Why Cancer Screenings Matter
Many cancers develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Screening tests are designed to detect cancer before symptoms begin or identify abnormal cells that could become cancer in the future. Early detection can lead to more treatment options, less aggressive therapies, and improved survival rates.
Regular screenings are an important part of preventative health care, particularly for cancers that are known to affect women.
Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. Screening mammograms can detect breast cancer early, sometimes before a lump can be felt.
Most guidelines recommend that women begin discussing mammogram screening with their healthcare provider in their 40s, with screening schedules determined based on individual risk factors.
Women with a family history of breast cancer or certain genetic factors may need earlier or more frequent screening.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer screening helps detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could develop into cancer if left untreated. Screening options include:
- Pap test, which identifies abnormal cervical cells
- HPV testing, which detects high-risk types of human papillomavirus associated with cervical cancer
Routine screening has significantly reduced cervical cancer rates by allowing providers to detect and treat abnormal cells early.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal (colon) cancer affects both men and women, but screening is essential for women as well. Screening can detect precancerous polyps that can be removed before they become cancer.
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
Screening options may include colonoscopy, stool-based tests, or other imaging tests depending on individual risk and provider recommendations.
Lung Cancer Screening for High-Risk Individuals
Women who have a history of heavy smoking may qualify for lung cancer screening using a low-dose CT scan.
Screening is typically recommended for adults between certain ages who currently smoke or previously smoked heavily. Lung cancer screening can help detect cancer earlier, when treatment may be more effective.
Women should discuss their smoking history and risk factors with their healthcare provider to determine whether screening is appropriate.
Taking a Proactive Approach to Health
Women's Health Month is a reminder that preventative care plays a critical role in long-term health. Scheduling recommended screenings, maintaining regular checkups, and discussing family health history with a healthcare provider can help ensure the right screenings are completed at the appropriate time.
If you are unsure which screenings are right for you, our team is here to help you create a personalized screening plan based on your age, health history, and risk factors.