Let’s be real — no one wakes up excited about scheduling a cancer screening. But catching cancer early? That part truly changes lives.

When doctors find cancer before symptoms show up, treatment often becomes more effective, less invasive, and far less overwhelming. And while many cancers stay quiet at first, screenings give us a chance to catch problems long before they make themselves known. 

Different cancers have their own screening guidelines. Some start at certain ages, some depend on family history, and some don’t have routine screening tests at all. With more than 200 types of cancer out there, no single test can detect everything. But focusing on the ones we can screen for, and staying aware of unusual symptoms, helps us stop many cancers in their tracks. 

Cancer Screening Guidelines Simplified 

Here's a friendly breakdown of the most common cancer screenings and when they typically start:

Breast Cancer
Self‑breast exams are your early alert system, but most people at average risk start mammograms at age 45. If you’re higher risk, like having a strong family history of breast cancer, you may need to start closer to age 40. The NCCN even suggests a breast cancer risk assessment by age 25. The University of Florida developed an online risk assessment that is easy and free to use.

Prostate Cancer
If prostate cancer is in your family, talk to your doctor around age 40. African American men are encouraged to start the conversation around age 45. For many others, a personalized decision about PSA testing happens between ages 55–69.

Colorectal Cancer 
Screening starts at age 45 for everyone. That could mean a colonoscopy, stool test, or another screening option. Your primary care health team can help you decide.

Lung Cancer
People ages 50–80 who smoke or used to smoke may qualify for a low‑dose CT scan (LDCT). Screening is also considered for people with exposures like radon, secondhand smoke, or certain chemical risks.

Cervical Cancer
Pap tests start at age 25 for anyone with a cervix. HPV testing is added when appropriate.

Skin Cancer
An annual skin check from a dermatologist is a smart move, especially if you’ve had sun exposure, have fair skin, or notice any changing moles.

When Symptoms are Unexpected, Take Action

Some cancers, like pancreatic, ovarian, liver, and brain cancer, don’t have routine screening tests. That’s why paying attention to persistent or unexplained symptoms is so important. Fatigue that doesn’t make sense, unexplained bruising, sudden weight loss, lumps, or vision changes deserve attention.

Children, too — if something seems off and doesn’t go away, it’s worth checking in with a medical professional.

And don’t underestimate yearly checkups. Sometimes a provider catches something subtle you might never have noticed. If something feels wrong, trust your gut. And if you’re unsure, asking for a second opinion is always okay.

Encouraging Friends & Family to Get Screened

Talking about cancer can be awkward, but screenings save lives. Here are gentle ways to inspire someone to take that step: 

Share facts, not fear.
Screenings are about empowerment, not panic.

Tell a story.
Hearing how early detection helped someone is powerful.

Offer support.
A buddy to help schedule or attend an appointment can make all the difference.

Build community.
Supportive conversations, online or in person, make screening feel normal.

Point out the convenience.
Online scheduling, reminders and simplified prep make screenings easier than ever.

Your Easy Checklist for Cancer Screening

Use this quick checklist to know what screenings may apply to you or someone you love.

(Always talk with a healthcare provider about your personal risk.)

Breast Cancer

• Self-breast awareness
• Risk assessment by age 25
• Mammogram starting at ages 40–45 (earlier if high risk)

Cervical Cancer

• Pap smear starting at age 25
• HPV testing as recommended

Colorectal Cancer

• Begin screening at age 45
• Choose method: colonoscopy, stool-based test, or other options

Prostate Cancer

• Discuss PSA testing starting between ages 40–55 depending on risk
• Make a personalized plan with your provider

Lung Cancer

• Consider LDCT screening if ages 50–80 AND
• You currently smoke, OR
• You used to smoke, OR
• You have high‑risk exposures

Skin Cancer

• Annual full‑body skin exam with a dermatologist
• Monitor moles for changes (ABCDEs)

General Health

• Yearly wellness exam
• Report any persistent, unexplained symptoms

The Bottom Line

Knowing when cancer screenings are recommended and why they are important helps us take better care of ourselves and others. If you’ve been putting one off, consider this your friendly nudge. And maybe reach out to someone else who needs the same reminder.

Who can you text today to check in about their next screening?