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Self-Examination
Starting at a very young age, you should monitor moles. Looking at the mole's asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolution. If there are irregular changes or looks to the mole, you should consult a doctor. Any irregular looks to the mole could be an indicator of skin cancer. -
Self-Examination of Breast Cancer
When starting puberty, self examination of feeling of breast for any lumps or bumps. If any are detected, then you should consult a doctor. -
Mammograms
Starting at age 21, you should be getting a mammogram. Starting at age 40, you should be getting it annually. A mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast. It uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of interval tissues, bones, and organs on film. The more solid the structure is, the whiter it appears on the film. Therefore, X-rays are helpful for determining if there are any lumps because it will show up more white. -
Pap Smear
Starting at 21, you should be getting a pap smear every three years. However, starting at 30 years old you should be getting a pap smear every 5 years to test for cervical cancer. Women will lie on the table and a health care professional will use a small metal or plastic speculum to open the vagina. A sample of mucus and cells will be obtained from the cervix using a wooden scraper. This will be sent to the lab to see any abnormalities. -
Colonoscopy
You should get a colonoscopy at age 21. However, when you turn 50 you should be getting a colonoscopy almost annually. A colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and advanced through the large intestine. The colonoscope allows the doctor to view the lining of the colon. -
Endometrial Biopsy
Those who are experiencing menopause should check for vaginal bleeding, discharge, or spotting. Based on history of endometrial cancer, women should consider having a yearly endometrial biopsy which inserts a thin plastic or metal tubular device through cervix into the uterus to remove a tiny piece of inner lining tissue. -
Low-dose CT Scan
Those who smoke frequently smoke and are older are more pushed to screen for lung cancer. You should get a screening annually. In this test, an X-ray machine scans the body and uses low doses of radiation to make detailed pictures of the lungs. Any abnormal images such as a more white area in the lungs aside from the bones can be an indicative sign of lung cancer.