Early Detection with Cancer Screenings for Women on the Central Coast
Stay healthy by getting regular screenings for women at Dignity Health Central Coast.
Most cancers do not differentiate between men and women. Unfortunately, there are six cancers, including breast cancer and colon cancer, that place women at particular risk. You can reduce your chances of developing late-stage cancer with recommended cancer screenings for women on the Central Coast of California.
Find a Doctor who cares about your unique cancer risk factors at Dignity Health Central Coast.
Breast Cancer Screening & More at Dignity Health Central Coast
If you are a woman, you are probably aware of the most common screenings, including mammogram and cervical cancer screenings. In addition to detecting breast and cervical cancer, screenings can help find colon cancer, uterine cancer, skin cancer, and lung cancer.
At Dignity Health Central Coast, your doctor will recommend screenings for:
- Cervical cancer testing involves a Pap smear beginning at age 21. How frequently your doctor recommends this test will depend on your medical history, age, and other risk factors. During a Pap smear, your doctor inserts a speculum into your vagina to gather cervical cells. The sample is sent to a lab to determine if they contain precancerous or cancerous cells.
- Colon cancer screening with a colonoscopy is suggested every 10 years for women ages 50 to 75, and younger if you have an increased risk. During a colonoscopy, your doctor inserts a lighted tube through the rectum into your colon or large intestine.
- Uterine (endometrial) cancer screening with an endometrial biopsy is done if you have risk factors, including family history, previous breast or ovarian cancer, estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy, or previous radiation to your pelvis.
- Breast cancer screening should be part of your regular health physical. Your doctor examines your breasts for changes in texture and lumps. Once you reach age 40, your doctor will recommend annual screening mammograms that use low-dose X-rays to capture an image of your breasts.
- Skin cancer screening should be part of your annual physical. If you are a higher risk, you may want more frequent exams or decide to visit a dermatologist.
- Lung cancer screening may be recommended if you are a smoker or quit smoking within the last 15 years. Your doctor may recommend a yearly low-dose CT lung scan from age 50 to 77.
Stay Healthy with Cancer Screenings for Women
If your doctor detects something unusual with your cancer screening results, you may have additional tests to better determine the presence of cancer. As always, talk to your doctors about any questions or concerns.