I am at an age that sometimes at appointments with health care providers I hear this phrase, “At your age we should probably check (insert some system or for a disease)” Many health insurances encourage screenings and tests at certain ages. I have a family history of different kinds of cancers, so that’s something that I think about. I have told my health practitioners some words I never want to hear are “If we had caught this cancer sooner, we could have done more.” 
February is the month of National Cancer Screening/Prevention. Diagnosing certain cancers early when it’s easier to treat saves lives and helps people live with cancer longer. Some cancer screenings are a part of an overall health and wellness plan. They are done before there are any signs or symptoms of cancer.
Cancer screenings involve different types of tests including a physical examination, weight and activity level, asking about any symptoms or physical changes and family history, to assess certain risk factors. Imaging tests such as colonoscopies and mammograms look inside the body. According to the American Cancer Society:
- Breast Cancer, women should get annual breast cancer screening mammograms at age 45-54; every two years or can continue yearly screening. Screening should continue if a woman is in good health and is expected to live 10 or more years or longer.
- Colon and rectal cancer and polyps screening should start at age 45 using either stool-based test or a visual exam at age 45 until age 75, if in good health.
- Cervical cancer screening should start at age 25 and continue at least age 65 for individuals with a cervix.
- Endometrial Cancer risks and symptoms should be discussed at the time of menopause.
- Lung Cancer an annual low-dose CT scan is recommended for people ages 50 to 80 who both Smoke or used to smoke and have at least a 20 pack-year history of smoking (2 packs per day for 10 years would equal a 20 pack-year history)
- Prostate Cancer men should talk with healthcare provider at 50 years old about the pros and cons of testing. For African American men and those with a father or brother that had prostate cancer before age 65, talk with your healthcare provider at age 45.
To reduce cancer risks and take control of your health:
- Avoid tobacco in all forms
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Regular physical activity and keep moving
- A healthy diet that includes plenty of fruit and vegetables
- Don’t drink alcohol, but if you do limit it to no more than 1 drink per day for women or 2 per day for men
- Protect your skin
- Know your risks and family history, listen to your body
- Get regular cancer screenings and checkups.
Written by: Ken Stewart, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Monroe County, stewart.1982@osu.edu.
Reviewed by: Lisa Barlage, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciencess, Ross County, barlage.7@osu.edu.