1. Cancer Care
  2. Cancer Care
  3. Cancer Screenings

Cancer Screenings

Early detection is key in the fight against cancer.

Routine cancer screenings can help diagnose conditions early, when they are easier to treat. Regular visits with your physician are an important way to stay healthy throughout your life. Below you will find information on cancer screenings and learn more about which screenings you may need. Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor if you have any questions.

For women, there are 5 recommended screenings: breast cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, skin cancer and lung cancer.

For men, there are 4 recommended screenings: prostate cancer, colon cancer, skin cancer and lung cancer.

Know Your Risk

Prevention and early detection can save your life. Through education and routine screenings, we can improve our community’s health.

Colon Cancer Testing (Colonoscopy)

Starting at age 45, men and women should talk with a healthcare provider about testing options. Colon cancer testing is recommended every 10 years for adults without other risk factors. A colonoscopy is a procedure used to detect cancer of the colon and rectum. The procedure takes about 30 minutes, and you will be sedated to prevent discomfort. Gastroenterologists generally perform colonoscopies.

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Skin Cancer Check

Recommended for adults during periodic physical examinations or more often at your doctor’s discretion, starting at age 18. Skin checks are examinations of skin surfaces to detect cancer. Dermatologists generally perform this screening.

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Breast Cancer Testing (Mammogram)

Breast cancer screenings are recommended annually for women age 40 and older. A mammogram is radiologic procedure used to detect changes within the breast tissue that could indicate breast cancer. Ochsner LSU Health offers digital mammography and 3D mammography. Your primary care doctor or OB/GYN can order a mammogram for you.

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Cervical Cancer Testing

Women ages 30-65 should get a Pap test and HPV test every 3 to 5 years, or a get a Pap test every 3 years. Women should begin screening for cervical cancer at age 25. OB/GYNs generally perform this screening.

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Prostate Cancer Screening

Men over the age of 50 should talk to a healthcare provider about testing. Speak to your doctor about which screening exam is right for you. A Urologist generally performs prostate cancer screenings.

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Lung Cancer Screening

Adults age 50 and older, that smoke or who were a heavy smoker are recommended to get tested for lung cancer. Our lung cancer screening uses the lowest radiation CT scan available, which produces a 3D image of your lungs. The screening is non-invasive, and you don’t have to do anything special to prepare. There are no injections or dyes to drink. The scan takes less than five minutes.

*Screening criteria recommended by American Cancer Society