These evidence-based screenings are recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and are based on factors like age and medical history. When combined with other factors within your control like physical activity or diet, screenings can help you thrive.
These screenings are covered at 100% for CalPERS health plan members when using doctors in your network.
Breast cancer screening guidelines are as follows:
- Starting at age 40, women should have a mammogram every two years until age 75.
- If you’re at higher risk for breast cancer, consult with your provider about when to begin mammograms and if additional tests are needed.
- Be familiar with the normal appearance and feel of your breasts and report any changes to a health care provider immediately.
Cervical cancer testing guidelines are as follows:
- No test is needed before age 21.
- Starting at age 21, individuals with a cervix should get a Pap test every three years until age 29.
- • From 30 to 65, testing options can include a co-test—human papillomavirus (HPV) test plus Pap test—or an HPV test alone every five years. You can also get a Pap test alone every three years. Talk to your provider about which option is best for you.
- Regular screening is important, even if you’ve been vaccinated against HPV.
- Regular screening is important, even if you’ve been vaccinated against HPV. After a cervix removal surgery (unless related to cervical cancer or pre-cancer diagnosis) no testing is required.
Colon cancer testing guidelines:
- Adults at average risk should start testing at age 45, with various test options available.
- Consult with a health care provider to determine the best test and schedule.
- If you’re under 45, talk with your provider about whether you’re at higher risk due to family history, genetic conditions, or other factors. If not, testing isn’t needed yet. If you’re at increased risk, talk to your provider about when to begin testing and which tests are appropriate.
Lung cancer screening guidelines:
- Adults ages 50 to 80 with a history of smoking (at least 20 pack-years) and who currently smoke or have quit in the past 15 years, should get yearly lung cancer screenings using a low-dose CT scan.
- A pack-year is defined as smoking one pack (20 cigarettes) per day for a year (for example, a 20 pack-year could be one pack per day for 20 years, or two packs per day for 10 years).
- Before deciding to screen for lung cancer, discuss with your health care provider the purpose, method, benefits, and potential risks of screening.
Prostate cancer testing guidelines:
- Men aged 55 to 69 years and those with higher-than-average risk (including Black men and those with a close family history of prostate cancer before age 65) should discuss testing with their health care provider. This helps weigh the risks and benefits of testing.
- In determining whether this service is appropriate in individual cases, patients and clinicians should consider the balance of benefits and harms based on family history, race/ethnicity, comorbid medical conditions, patient values about the benefits and harms of screening and treatment-specific outcomes, and other health needs.
To reduce cancer risk and improve overall health:
Avoid tobacco: There is no safe form of tobacco. Stop smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke. It causes cancer and other health issues. If you need help quitting, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345.
Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases cancer risk. Balance calories consumed with physical activity, avoid excessive weight gain, and make healthy food choices. Small weight loss can be beneficial, and controlling portion sizes is key. For additional support in maintaining a healthy weight, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Get moving: In general, limit time spent sitting or lying down. No matter your age, physical activity helps contribute to your overall health and wellbeing.
- Adults: Aim for 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate-intensity, or 1.25 to 2.5 hours of vigorous-intensity physical activity each week.
- Children and teens: Get at least one hour of moderate or vigorous activity daily.
Eat healthy: Include lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit red meats, processed meats, sugary drinks, and highly processed foods.
Limit alcohol: Even low levels of alcohol consumption are linked to an increased risk of cancer, so it is best to limit consumption as much as possible.
Adopting these habits can significantly improve your health and reduce your risk of cancer. For a regular and reliable source of preventive recommendations, visit the USPSTF website.