3.2.5 Screening Timeline

Pap Smear

21

At 21 is when females get their first pap smear. They will get one every 3 years until 30, when they continue to get one but only every 5 years. This is performed but a speculum being inserted into the vagina then widen. A brush is then inserted to collect cells which are removed and then tested for cervical cancer.

Endometrial Biopsy

35

Females get an endometrial biopsy yearly starting at age 35. This is performed by a thing tube that is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus and then a small sample of cells is taken and tested for endometrial cancer.

Mammogram

40

Females get a mammogram every year from age 40 to 55. After the age of 55, women only need them every 2 years. The mammograms consist of a physical examination and an X-Ray to check for any lumps relating to breast cancer.

Colonoscopy

45

Both men and women get a colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 45. A colonoscopy consist of a colonoscope that gets inserted through the rectum while a doctor takes a look if the pictures and videos of the scope to make sure there is no signs of colon cancer.

Digital Rectal Exam

50

A digital rectal exam or DRE is the name of the type of screening for prostate cancer. Men start this testing around age 50 and continue it for every 3-5 years for the rest of their life. This is done when a doctor inserts a gloved, santitized finger into the rectum to feel the back wall of the prostate.

PET/CT Scan

55

This screening is used to look for lung cancer. Men and women usually start this test at age 55 and have it done yearly for the rest of their lives. These machines take detailed imagines of the lungs so that the doctors can search for signs of lung cancer.