Cancer screening schedules vary by cancer type, age, and individual risk factors.
Generally, women are advised to undergo mammograms for breast cancer starting between ages 40 and 45 and continue biennially or annually, with cervical cancer screenings recommended every three to five years starting at age 21. Both men and women should start colorectal cancer screening at age 45, with the frequency depending on the test type. Heavy smokers aged 50 to 80 should consider annual lung cancer screening. Prostate cancer screening discussions should begin at age 50 for most men or earlier for those at higher risk. Skin cancer examinations are encouraged annually.
These are general recommendations for low-risk, healthy individuals, and every patient’s schedule may vary. Personal and family medical histories should guide discussions with healthcare providers to tailor the appropriate screening timetable.