Summary of American Cancer Society Recommendations for
the Early Detection of Cancer in Asymptomatic People
Visit the American Cancer Society's Website for
More Information on the Early Detection of Cancer
| Test or Procedure | Sex | Age | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sigmoidoscopy, preferably flexible | M&F | 50 + | Every 3-5 years |
| Fecal Occult Blood Test | M&F | 50 + | Every year |
| Digital Rectal Examination | M&F | 40 + | Every year |
| Prostate Exam* | M | 50 + | Every year |
| Pap Test | F | All women who are, or who have been, sexually active, or have reached age 18, should have an annual Pap test and pelvic examination. After a woman has had three or more consecutive satisfactory normal annual examinations, the Pap test may be performed less frequently at the discretion of her physician | |
| Pelvic Examination | F | 18-40 | Every 1-3 years |
| 40 + | Every year | ||
| Endometrial Tissue Sample | F | Menopause if at high risk** | At menopause and thereafter at the discretion of the physician |
| Breast Self-Exam | F | 20 + | Every month |
| Breast Clinical Examination | F | 20-40 | Every 3 years |
| 40 + | Every year | ||
| Mammography*** | F | 40 + | Every year |
| Health Counseling and Cancer Checkup**** | M&F | 20 + | Every 3 years |
| 40 + | Every year | ||
| * Annual digital rectal exam & prostate-specific antigen should be performed on men 50 years +. If either is abnormal, further evaluation should be considered ** History of infertility, obesity, failure to ovulate, abnormal uterine bleeding, or estrogen or tamaxifen therapy *** Screening mammography should begin by age 40 **** To include exam for cancers of the thyroid, testicles, ovaries, lymph nodes, oral region, and skin |
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