Screening finds cancers early, when they’re most treatable — and some screening tests can prevent cancer entirely by finding precancerous changes. Here’s a summary of current US Preventive Services Task Force recommendations for women at average risk. Your own schedule may differ based on family history and personal risk.
Breast cancer
Mammogram every two years from age 40 to 74. The USPSTF lowered the starting age from 50 to 40 in 2024. Women with a strong family history, certain genetic variants or dense breasts may need earlier or additional screening — discuss this with your clinician.
Cervical cancer
- Ages 21–29: Pap test every three years.
- Ages 30–65: Pap test every three years, HPV testing every five years, or both together every five years.
- Over 65: Screening can usually stop if previous results were normal and you’re not at high risk.
Colorectal cancer
Screening from age 45 to 75. Options include a colonoscopy every 10 years or stool-based tests (such as FIT annually), among others. The best test is the one you’ll actually do.
Lung cancer
Annual low-dose CT scan from 50 to 80 for people with a 20 pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
Skin
There’s no routine screening recommendation for the general population, but see a clinician about new, changing or unusual moles or skin spots.
When to go sooner
Screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice a breast lump, abnormal bleeding (especially after menopause), changes in bowel habits, persistent bloating, or unexplained weight loss, don’t wait for your next scheduled test.
Recommendations change as evidence evolves, so review your screening schedule with your clinician every year or two.