Health Information: Cancer Screening

Cancer occurs when cells in the body become abnormal and grow without order or control. Regular screenings check for disease when you have no signs or symptoms and can find cancer early. When cancer is found early, there are more treatment options and a better chance for a full recovery.

For Women and Men

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the US. Your chance of getting colorectal cancer grows as you age and screening is recommended starting at age 50. Screening tests include fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and barium enema. Your doctor can advise you about which test is the best for you.

For Women

Breast cancer is a very common cancer among women. A screening test called a mammogram is an x-ray that can see if your breasts are healthy. If something is wrong, this test can find it before you would feel a lump. Experts say to get a mammogram every 1-2 years.

To find a mammography facility in your area, click the link below (link opens a new window):

Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Mammography Facility Database

Cervical Cancer occurs in woman of all ages. Talk to your doctor about how often to get a Pap test and pelvic examination to screen for cervical cancer.

For Men

Prostate cancer is a common cancer found in American men. Most prostate cancers are found in men over the age of 65. Types of tests include rectal exams and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests. Ask your doctor if you should be screened.

Medicare Coverage

Medicare helps pay for cancer screenings. For more information on Medicare coverage call 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227) or visit www.medicare.gov (link opens a new window).

For more information

The following links open new windows:

American Cancer Society: 1-800-227-2345
Cancer Information Service: 1-800-422-6237

The Colorado Foundation for Medical Care (CFMC), the Medicare quality improvement organization for Colorado, prepared this material under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The contents do not necessarily reflect CMS Policy.