A proactive approach to women’s cancer screenings

In medicine, the saying goes that it is far better to prevent an illness than to treat it later. This is especially true when it comes to cancer.

While the idea of cancer can be intimidating, knowing which screenings to get (and when to get them) can give women better control over their health and potential peace of mind.

Although there may be additional options to consider as tests, this guide outlines some of the critical screenings beginning in early adulthood and continuing through later life. From Pap tests to mammograms and colonoscopies, each stage of life brings new ways to protect your health.

It is important to remember that no test is completely sensitive or specific. Routine follow-up with repeat testing (as indicated) may help overcome this concern.

Screenings In Your 20s: Building The Foundation

For women in their 20s, cervical cancer screening is definitely a focus. The Papanicolaou test (also called a Pap smear) checks for cell changes in the cervix that could potentially become malignant or abnormal. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPTF) recommends starting Pap tests at 21 years old and repeating them every three years until age 29 as long as the results are reassuring.

Some doctors may perform a human papillomavirus (HPV) test. HPV is the most common cause of cervical cancer. Testing for HPV can provide important information about your risk. However, an annual pelvic exam is suggested for every woman regardless of the Pap or HPV results because it can help detect other abnormalities.

Beyond screenings, it is important to establish regular visits with a primary care provider.

This is a good time to discuss family history of cancer and to learn how to perform breast self-exams. While mammograms are not necessary in your 20s, knowing what is normal for your body makes it easier to notice changes and bring them to your doctor’s attention.

Screenings In Your 30s And 40s: Expanding The Approach

As women move into their 30s, cervical cancer screening guidelines shift. The USPSTF recommends a “co-test” that combines a Pap test and an HPV test every five years. If co-testing is not performed, then using the three-year interval for Pap smears is suggested. Alternatively, high-risk HPV testing can be performed alone every five years. These approaches give a more complete picture of cervical health.

By the time women reach their 40s, breast cancer screening becomes a key priority. The American Cancer Society recommends that women at average risk begin annual mammograms at 45 years old. However, some organizations and physicians suggest starting earlier at 40 years old, particularly if risk factors are present.

Mammograms are highly effective because they can detect abnormalities years before they can be felt during a physical exam. For women with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, doctors may recommend earlier screening, breast ultrasound or more advanced imaging (such as breast MRI) in specific conditions.

Screenings After Age 50: Adding Colon And Lung Cancer Checks

Once women reach 45 years old, colon cancer screening becomes an important part of preventive care. Colon cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when detected early, making regular screening essential. The most common screening option is a colonoscopy, usually done every 10 years. Other choices include stool-based tests, which are less invasive but need to be repeated more often. It is important to discuss these options with your physician to decide what is best for you.

Annual mammograms should continue after age 50. For cervical cancer, women may be able to stop Pap and HPV testing after they are 65 years old if they have a history of consistently normal results. This decision should always be made in consultation with a physician.

For women between the ages of 55 and 74 who are current or former heavy smokers, lung cancer screening may also be recommended. The American Cancer Society advises yearly low-dose CT scans of the chest for those who meet certain criteria that increase a patient’s risk.

Other Screenings And Lifestyle Factors

Cancer prevention goes beyond a few specific tests. Regular skin exams to check for melanoma are recommended at all ages. Doctors may also discuss symptoms or risks for other cancers, such as endometrial cancer after menopause. Postmenopausal women who develop inexplicable vaginal bleeding may be at increased risk of malignancy.

They would need to have prompt assessments by their gynecologist.

Conversations about lifestyle are equally important. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol and avoiding tobacco can help reduce the risk of several types of cancer. Having these discussions with your physician may highlight personal risk factors and permit the development of a proactive plan for long-term health.

Taking Charge Of Your Health

Staying informed, asking questions and keeping up with recommended screenings gives women the power and ability to protect their health. As the chief health care officer of each household, mothers can help protect their whole family. Preventive care is not just about avoiding disease. It’s also about peace of mind and a healthier future.

Dr. Dani Zoorob is an OB/GYN and urogynecology physician who sees patients at Ochsner LSU Health — St. Mary Medical Center in Shreveport and Ochsner LSU Health — Viking Drive in Bossier City. Please visit ochsnerlsuhs.org/doctors/dani-george-zoorob or call 318-626-2800 to schedule an appointment.