Partnering with your doctor, you can determine together which screenings are appropriate given your age, health status, and risk factors. It’s an important process because the suitability of each exam varies from person to person. No single approach to screenings fits everyone.
| Colorectal Cancer |
Colonoscopy: Considered the “gold standard” test; allows physician to view colon when patient is sedated using a flexible fiber-optic tube. Recommended for all adults starting at age 50, and at regular intervals thereafter (For people with family history of colorectal cancer, test may be given at an earlier age). Call 847.570.1299 to schedule an appointment. |
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Virtual colonoscopy (also CT colonography): A CT scan of the abdomen, less invasive than traditional colonscopy. Still considered experimental though it may eventually be proven acceptable for detection. Call 847.570.1299 to schedule an appointment.
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| Lung Cancer |
Low dose CT scan of lung/Spiral CT: International clinical trial is under way to determine whether this is an appropriate test to detect abnormal pulmonary nodules among current/former smokers, age 45 and older. Please call 847.475.LUNG.
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| Skin Cancer |
Visual Exam by physician to identify a skin lesion or change in a mole; often caused by sustained exposure to sun causing burning/peeling.
Call 847.663.8060 for an appointment with a Dermatologist.
Visit the Dermatology section of our website for more information.
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FOR WOMEN
Breast Cancer
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Screening Mammogram: American Cancer Society Guidelines recommend baseline at age 40, annually thereafter
Request an appointment for a screening mammogram.
Clinical Breast Exam: Yearly, as part of well woman exam
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| Cervical Cancer |
Pap Smear: American Cancer Society recommends that women begin screening 3 years after start of sexual activity. After 3 or more consecutive normal annual exams, the Pap test may be performed less frequently at the discretion of her physician. Pap smears are generally done at the time of a pelvic exam.
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FOR MEN
Prostate Cancer
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Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) and Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Medical opinion varies regarding routine screening. Men age 50+ should discuss PSA testing with their physician. PSA test is blood test that may be helpful in identifying cancer; the DRE allows physicians to probe the prostate for lumps, growths. PSA is tested at age 40 for African-American men with a family history of prostate cancer.
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Visit our online calendar for cancer care and prevention events.