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Screening Checklist

Many illnesses and chronic diseases can be prevented by taking an active role in your health and keeping up with recommended screenings. Review these lists of screenings. You can even print it off and take it with you to your doctor’s appointment. Your doctor can help you create a screening plan that is right for you.

Screenings for All Ages
Screenings for Women
Screenings for Men

All Ages

You know your body best. If something doesn’t feel right, talk to your doctor.

  • Ask your doctor about cancer screening exams, such as tests for ovarian, endometrial, breast, prostate, lung and skin cancers. Based on your family history and any other risk factors, your doctor can help determine which screenings you need.
  • There are several other screenings for men and women that are important for reducing risk of diseases like diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Talk to your doctor about how often you should check your:
    • Blood Pressure
    • Blood Sugar (Glucose)
    • Cholesterol
    • Triglycerides

For children, talk to your doctor about when your child should have immunizations.

Screenings for Women

These exams are for women at average risk of cancer. If you believe you may be more likely to develop cancer because of your personal or family medical history, talk to your doctor.

Ages 20-29

  • Clinical breast exam every one to three years to check for breast cancer
  • Pap test every three years to check for cervical cancer, starting at age 21

Ages 30-39

  • Clinical breast exam every one to three years to check for breast cancer
  • Pap test and HPV test every five years to check for cervical cancer

Ages 40-49

  • Mammogram and clinical breast exam every year to check for breast cancer
  • Pap test and HPV test every five years to check for cervical cancer

Ages 50-75

  • Mammogram and clinical breast exam every year to check for breast cancer
  • Pap test and HPV test every five years to check for cervical cancer
  • Colonoscopy every 10 years or virtual colonoscopy every five years to check for colorectal cancer.

For women over 75, your doctor can help you decide if you should continue screenings.

Screenings for Men

These exams are for men at average risk of cancer. If you believe you may be more likely to develop cancer because of your personal or family medical history, talk to your doctor.

Ages 45-49

  • Digital Rectal Exam and PSA Test every year to check for prostate cancer if you are African American or have a family history (father, brother, son) of prostate cancer. If you are not African American or do not have family history, you should start screening at age 50.

Ages 50-75

  • Digital Rectal Exam and PSA Test every year to check for prostate cancer
  • Colonoscopy every 10 years or virtual colonoscopy every 5 years to check for colorectal cancer

For men over 75, your doctor can help you decide if you should continue screenings.