The Screenings That Could Save Your Life
Cancer screening may not be at the top of your list when you feel well. But some cancers can grow without causing symptoms. Cancer affects many people in our community, making routine screenings an important part of protecting your health.
Regular cancer screenings are one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk and find cancer early, when it may be easier to treat. New technologies are also helping make screenings more effective. Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) offers screening services for several common cancers. The right tests and timing depend on your age, health, family history, and other risk factors.
Why Early Detection Matters
Finding cancer early can improve treatment options and health outcomes. Some screenings can also find abnormal cells or growths before they turn into cancer. Staying current with recommended screenings is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health.
Screenings to Discuss with Your Provider
BHS provides screening services for breast, colorectal, cervical, lung, and prostate cancers. These general guidelines can help you begin the conversation with your provider:
| Cancer screening | Type of test | General guidance |
| Breast | Mammogram | Often begins in your 40s |
| Colorectal | Colonoscopy or other screening test | Usually begins at age 45 |
| Cervical | Pap and/or HPV test | Usually begins at age 21 |
| Lung | Low-dose CT scan | May be recommended from ages 50–80 for people with a smoking history |
| Prostate | PSA blood test and sometimes a prostate exam | Often begins around age 50 |
Your Screening Plan Is Personal
Screening guidelines are a starting point. You may need a test sooner or more often if cancer runs in your family, you have had an abnormal result, or you have other health risks. Your provider can review your history and explain which screenings are recommended for you.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
Not sure where to begin? Ask your provider:
- Which cancer screenings do I need now?
- Does my family or health history change when I should be screened?
- What happens during the test, and how should I prepare?
- Where can I have the screening?
- How will I receive my results, and what will happen next?
What to Expect
Each screening is different. Some involve imaging, such as a mammogram or low-dose CT scan. Others use a blood test, a Pap or HPV test, or procedures such as colonoscopy.
Your care team will explain how to prepare and what to expect. After the screening, you will receive your results and any follow-up recommendations. An abnormal result does not always mean cancer. It may mean that your provider needs more information or wants to repeat a test.
How to Schedule Your Screening
The first step is to talk with your primary care provider. Your provider will review your age, health history, family history, and other risk factors. Together, you can decide which screening is right for you. Your provider can also place any orders needed and help you schedule the test.
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Dr. Rebecca Caine
Medical Director of Primary Care Services
“The volume of smoke exposure has a tremendous impact on the risk of lung cancer, so anyone who is a smoker, this is a great time to think about quitting smoking. There’s never an easy time, but it’s always the right time to think about quitting.”
Take the Next Step Today
You do not need to wait for symptoms to act. Talk with your provider today about the screenings that are right for you and plan to get up to date. A simple appointment now could make an important difference later.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
All facts in this article were gathered by writers employed by Berkshire Health Systems. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat information for clarity and presentation. This information is fact-checked by BHS staff before being published.
How BHS patients can schedule a screening
To learn more about becoming a patient, talk to your primary care provider or contact the Phelps Cancer Center at 413-443-6000.