Cancer screening means checking your body for cancer before you have symptoms. Getting screening tests regularly may find breast, cervical, and colorectal (colon) cancers early, when treatment is likely to work best. Learn more about CDC-recommended screening tests.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical Cancer screening is done with the HPV test and the Pap test. Any individual with a cervix should start getting Pap tests at age 21. The HPV test checks for a virus that can cause cell changes in the cervix and the Pap test looks for precancer cell changes on the cervix. These tests can be done here at our Primary Care clinic. For more information Screening for Cervical Cancer | Cervical Cancer | CDC
Breast Cancer Screening
Breast Cancer screening is usually done via a mammogram. This is a special x-ray of your breast that allows them to look for any changes in your breast that are concerning. Regular Mammograms can find breast cancer early, sometimes up to 3 years before it can be felt. While many women are concerned that a mammogram will be painful they are usually only slightly uncomfortable and are over with quickly. See the following link for more information on Mammograms and tips for getting it done. About Mammograms | Breast Cancer | CDC
Did you know you can directly schedule your preventative breast cancer screening?
- Schedule your appointment directly at a number of convenient locations
- When you schedule, let them know you are a Valley View patient and the name of your primary care provider (That way the readiologist clinic will send us your mammogram results.)
- If you are experiencing any breast complaints, please schedule an appointment with your primary care provider first.
Colon Cancer Screening
Most people should begin screening at age 45. Colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find pre-cancerous polyps before they develop into cancer and they can be removed. Some screening for colon cancer can be done at home, other options require a referral to a specialist. Talk to your Care team about which option is right for you. Screening for Colorectal Cancer | Colorectal Cancer | CDC
Lung Cancer Screening
The USPSTF recommends yearly lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for people who:
- Have a history of heavy smoking, and
- Smoke now or quit within the past 15 years, and
- Are between 50 and 80 years old.