This year, National Women’s Health Week is May 14- 20th and provides a stimulus for women to focus on their physical, mental and emotional health. We’re taking the opportunity to explore what ages you should start specific cancer screenings as recommended by the American Cancer Society. As always, if your family has a history of cancer or other illnesses, check with your doctor to see if you should participate in additional or earlier screenings.
Skin Cancer:
You should self examine often, and have a skin exam at every regular check-up.
Cervical Cancer:
All women should begin cervical cancer screenings at age 21.
Breast Cancer:
It’s suggested that you start the conversation with your healthcare provider about breast cancer screenings as early as age 40. By age 45, women should be getting yearly mammograms.
Colon Cancer:
Women should start screening for colon cancer around the age of 50.
Lung Cancer:
If you’re between the ages of 55 and 74 and are a heavy smoker, talk to your health care provider about whether or not a low-dose CT scan is a good option. Even if you’ve quit smoking, you still may be at risk.
For more information on women’s health at all ages, please visit: https://www.womenshealth.gov
