Cancer Screening

Screening is when a test is used to look for a disease before there are any symptoms. Cancer screening tests are effective when they can detect disease early. For some cancers, detecting disease early can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes. In other cases, the risks associated with screening and treatment may be greater than the benefits. The Comprehensive Cancer Program follows screening recommendations made by the CDC and US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).

Screening tests are different from diagnostic tests. Diagnostic tests are used when a person has symptoms, and tests are intended to find out what is causing the symptoms.

Talk with your doctor to find out what cancer screening tests you may need.