Cancer Screening
Markey works with cancer education programs, evidence-based research groups, local healthcare providers, and our Markey-affiliated partners to further cancer prevention and education all across Kentucky.
Our ultimate goal is simple: We want to save lives.
Education and screenings are important in doing that. Our team is here to help.
Screenings
Screening exams are simply medical tests done when you’re healthy. It’s like taking a car in for a tune up. You want to make sure you’re keeping a close check on your body at recommended ages for screenings.
Those ages may vary depending on your family history. Talk to your doctor about your family’s history of cancer and your personal health history. Both play a major role in deciding what screenings may be best for you.
The frequency of those screenings may also vary from person to person. Please ask your doctor how often you should get particular screenings.
In addition, please pay attention to your body. If you notice any changes, let your doctor know.
Markey Cancer Center offers screening exams for the cancers below:
Partner of the American Cancer Society
Markey is proud to partner with the American Cancer Society. If you have questions about at what age you should get particular screenings, please check out the ACS’s recommendations.
Please don’t hesitate to call Markey for information on screenings that could save your life or someone you love. We want to help you understand what is available.
Screening Guidelines
The American Cancer Society guidelines for early detection of specific cancers, with risk based merely on age and sex, are the following:
Sigmoidoscopy (similar to a colonoscopy) - Males and females age 50 and over: Every 3 to 5 years.
Fecal occult blood test - Males and females age 50 and over: Every year.
Digital rectal exam (DRE) - Males and females age 40 and over: Every year.
Prostate exam (DRE & PSA test) - Males age 50 and over: Every year.
Pap test - Females who are, or who have been sexually active, or have reached age 18, should have an annual Pap test and pelvic examination. After three or more consecutive normal annual examinations, the Pap test may be performed less frequently at the discretion of the physician.
Breast self-examination - Female age 20 and over: Monthly.
Breast clinical examination - Females age 20 to 40: Every three years. Females over age 40: Every year.
Mammography - Females age 40 to 49: Every 1 to 2 years. Females age 50 and over: Every year.
These are very general screening guidelines. Certain medical conditions, a specific family history of cancer, or exposure to certain toxic chemicals or conditions may increase significantly the risk of certain cancers and may warrant earlier, more frequent or more specific assessments.
More detailed information on the importance and methods of early detection of cancer can be obtained by calling the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) or visiting the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute online.
Lung Cancer Screening Program
The UK Lung Cancer Screening Program offers low-dose CT screenings for patients who might be at risk for lung cancer, including smokers and former smokers.
Learn more about the UK Lung Cancer Screening Program.
