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Birth of a Girl
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Growing Up
Though screenings, or even testing are not required, forming healthy habits and doing basic check-ups on yourself is encouraged. This includes looking at your skin, noticing any lumps, or any other areas of problem. -
Breast Cancer Examination (Monthly)
Starting at adolescence, women should begin doing self examinations for any notable changes in their breasts. This should be done monthly, and even though it is highly unlikely that a young woman will develop breast cancer, it is possible. -
Skin Cancer Screening (Every 3 years)
Though the median age for the diagnosis of melanoma is 63, it is recommended that men begin getting skin cancer screenings and biopsies starting at the age of 35. This is done by taking a sample of skin cells, and those cells are examined for any cancerous behaviors. -
Cervical/HPV Testing (Every 5 Years)
Starting at the age of 25, women should get a Pap Smear done every five years. This test is done by extracting cells from the cervix, and examining them for any cancerous behaviors. This test can be done alone, which is recommended every three years, or can be tested along with the HPV virus, which is recommended every five years. -
BRCA Gene Testing (Once)
It is recommended that women beginning getting test for the BRCA genes at the age of 25. Testing for this gene is accomplished by extracting your DNA and searching for gene markers. If it is found, that woman is 85% more likely to develop breast cancer, leading to the possible implications of immediate actions, such as the removal of breasts. -
Skin Cancer Screening (Yearly)
As you get older, your chances of developing skin cancer increase drastically, so it is recommended that anyone 40 or older get tested for skin cancer yearly, rather than every 3 years. -
Mammogram (Yearly)
Beginning at age 45, women are recommended to begin getting mammograms annually. This is a procedure in which an X-ray picture of the breast is taken, and can easily detect any abnormalities within the breast, such as breast cancer. -
Colon Cancer Screening (Yearly)
Starting at the age of 45, women should begin getting screened for colon cancer. This is most often done in the form of a colonoscopy, which is a procedure in which the doctor will insert a camera in your colon and actively search for any abnormalities. -
Annual Cancer Screening
Starting at age 45, your chances of developing any form of cancer are dramatically increased, meaning you should be more aware of your body and any abnormalities. This screening will cover most forms of cancer, however a specific screening may have to be done at a separate time, such as a skin biopsy. -
Lung Cancer Screening (Dependent)
Beginning at the age of 55, it is recommended that women get a CT scan of the chest cavity and the lungs annually to check for any abnormalities in the lungs. This screening for lung cancer however can be dependent on each individual's situation, such as being a smoker.