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Woman getting a mammogram at MoffittThis checklist lets you know which cancer screening tests we generally recommend most highly. There are several screening options to choose for convenience, cost or accessibility. Find your age below and find the tests you should schedule.

You may be at increased risk because of family history, your personal medical history, lifestyle and environmental factors. If you are at increased risk for cancer, you may need a diagnostic testing plan established by a doctor. 

Find a complete list of screenings available at Moffitt.

Age 18-29

  • Pap smear test every three years beginning at 21
  • Clinical breast exam every one to three years with breast self-awareness encouraged
  • Periodic cancer-related checkups with lifestyle counseling and exams for cancer of the thyroid, oral cavity, skin, lymph nodes and ovaries
  • The CDC recommends Hepatitis C screening at least once in a lifetime for all adults aged 18 years and older, and with every pregnancy

 Age 30-39  

  • HPV test every five years, a Pap test every three years, or a combination every five years
  • Clinical breast exam every one to three years with breast self-awareness encouraged
  • Periodic cancer-related checkups with lifestyle counseling and exams for cancer of the thyroid, oral cavity, skin, lymph nodes and ovaries

Age 40-49 

  • HPV test every five years, a Pap test every three years, or a combination every five years
  • Mammogram and clinical breast exam every year with breast self-awareness encouraged
  • Periodic cancer-related checkups with lifestyle counseling and exams for cancer of the thyroid, oral cavity, skin, lymph nodes and ovaries
  • Colonoscopy every ten years beginning at 45

Age 50-65 

  • HPV test every five years, a Pap test every three years, or a combination every five years
  • Mammogram and clinical breast exam every year with breast self-awareness encouraged
  • Colonoscopy every ten years 
  • Lung CT screening is recommended for current smokers and those with a heavy smoking history from 50 years old
  • Periodic cancer-related checkups with lifestyle counseling and exams for cancer of the thyroid, oral cavity, skin, lymph nodes and ovaries

Age 66-69 

  • If you have had regular screening with no history of abnormal pap tests, you may stop being tested for cervical cancer after age 65
  • Mammogram and clinical breast exam every year with breast self-awareness encouraged
  • Colonoscopy every ten years
  • Lung CT screening is recommended for current smokers and those with a heavy smoking history from 50 years old
  • Periodic cancer-related checkups with lifestyle counseling and exams for cancer of the thyroid, oral cavity, skin, lymph nodes and ovaries

Age 70 and Over 

  • Mammogram and clinical breast exam every year with breast self-awareness encouraged
  • Colonoscopy every 10 years
  • Lung CT screening is recommended for current smokers and those with a heavy smoking history from 50 years old
  • Periodic cancer-related checkups with lifestyle counseling and exams for cancer of the thyroid, oral cavity, skin, lymph nodes and ovaries

There is no specific age at which cancer screening stops. For older women, especially those in poor health, the benefits of cancer screening are less certain. Women should discuss cancer screening with their doctor and make a decision based on their overall health and previous screening history.

To learn more about your risk of developing cancer, call 1-888-663-3488 or complete an online form.