Colorectal cancer screening should begin at age 45 for average-risk adults per current USPSTF and ACS guidelines. Options include colonoscopy every 10 years (preferred for diagnostic accuracy), FIT (fecal immunochemical test) annually, stool DNA testing (Cologuard) every 1–3 years, or CT colonography every 5 years. For individuals with first-degree relatives with colorectal cancer, screening begins at age 40 or 10 years before the relative's diagnosis age — whichever is earlier.
Breast cancer screening with mammography is recommended starting at age 40 (ACS) or 50 (USPSTF, though updated 2024 guidelines lowered this to 40). Annual screening through age 74 is standard for average-risk women. Women with BRCA1/2 mutations, strong family history, or prior thoracic radiation are high-risk and may need annual MRI in addition to mammography starting at age 30.
Lung cancer screening with low-dose CT (LDCT) is recommended annually for current or former heavy smokers (20+ pack-year history, currently smoking or quit within 15 years) aged 50–80. This screening reduces lung cancer mortality by 20% in eligible populations. It remains severely underutilized — the majority of eligible patients are never offered it. Ask your doctor specifically if you meet criteria.
Cervical cancer screening (Pap smear and/or HPV co-testing) begins at age 21 and can end at 65 with adequate prior screening. Frequency depends on age and test type: Pap alone every 3 years ages 21–65, or Pap + HPV co-testing every 5 years ages 30–65. HPV vaccination (through age 26, and shared decision-making through 45) significantly reduces cervical cancer risk.