Getting regular preventive care and screenings may help find cancer and other health risks early, when they are most treatable and more treatment options are available. At Ascension sites of care, we offer convenient diagnostic imaging tests, including mammograms, colonoscopies, low-dose CT lung scans and many other health screenings.
Talk to your doctor about health screenings for early cancer detection
Even if you don’t have a family history of cancer or symptoms, start a conversation with a doctor about your risk factors for cancer and other health concerns. Our doctors provide tests and exams that screen for breast cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, throat cancer and more.
In your 20s: Women should begin getting regular Pap tests and clinical breast exams. Men should be getting annual health screenings.
In your 30s: Women should continue getting regular clinical breast exams. They should begin getting HPV tests in addition to Pap tests. Men should continue with annual health screenings.
In your 40s: Women should begin getting regular mammograms, colonoscopies, HPV tests and Pap tests. Men should begin getting colonoscopies. Men at increased risk for prostate cancer should also begin speaking to their doctor about PSA-based prostate cancer screening.
50 and older: Women should continue getting regular mammograms, colonoscopies, HPV tests and Pap tests or as recommended by their doctor. Men should continue getting regular colonoscopies and start or continue prostate cancer screenings. Older individuals should talk with their doctor about other screening tests.
Be sure to check with your insurance provider about your coverage for screenings and preventive care. Many of our doctors offer convenient online scheduling so you can select a day and time that’s right for you.
Learn more about your risk with genetic testing and counseling
We also provide genetic testing and counseling. If you are at high risk or have a family history of cancer, genetic testing and counseling can help you and your doctor better understand your risk for certain cancers. By working with you, our care team creates a personalized care plan that’s right for you. Talk to your doctor about whether genetic testing is right for you.
Talk with your doctor about your symptoms
Your doctor is the center of your care, ready to answer all your questions--big and small--and here for all your care needs. We start by listening to understand you and your concerns. Tell your doctor if you notice any changes in your health or new symptoms, such as blood in your stool or urine, coughing up blood, nipple discharge, a lump or any other concerns.
Learn more about our comprehensive cancer care services.
