Life gets busy. Between work, family, and everything in between, it’s easy to put your own health last. A few simple screenings can make a big difference. They can catch problems early — before you feel sick and when treatment works best.
Three important screenings to keep in mind are for cervical cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer.
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early. Watch for warning signs such as bleeding between periods or after menopause, pain during sex, or unusual discharge. Many women have no symptoms at all, which is why regular screening is so important.
When to get screened:
Ages 21-29: Pap test every three years.Ages 30-65: Pap test every three years, or HPV test every five years (or both).
These tests look for early cell changes before cancer develops.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. A mammogram can find cancer early — often before you can feel anything.
When to get screened:
Most women should begin mammograms at age 40 and repeat every 1-2 years, based on their provider’s advice. Many women feel completely fine in the early stages. Screening helps catch what you can’t see or feel.
However, there are still warning signs, such as a lump in the breast or underarm area, changes in breast size or shape, skin changes like dimpling or redness, or nipple discharge.
A simple step you can take:
Finger Lakes Community Health regularly brings mobile mammogram units to its health centers. This makes it easier to get screened close to home. Call our offices to find out when it will be near you.
Colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer affects both men and women. Watch for warning signs like changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, ongoing stomach pain, or unexplained weight loss. Like other cancers, symptoms may not appear right away, which is why regular screening matters.
Most adults should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. There are a few options.
One is a simple at-home test done every three years. The sample can be picked up from your home and sent to a lab for testing. Another option is a colonoscopy, which is typically done every 10 years if results are normal. Your provider can help you choose what’s best for you.
Many people worry that a colonoscopy will be painful, but it usually isn’t. You are given medication to help you relax or sleep, so you don’t feel pain. The prep the day before is often the difficult part, but that has changed over the years.
Cancer screenings are important, but they are not the only tests that help protect your health.
STI and HIV
Sexually transmitted infections and HIV can affect anyone. Many people think they only need to be tested when they are younger, but screening is important at every stage of life.
All adults should be tested for HIV at least once. You may need yearly STI testing if you have new or multiple partners, and you should be tested anytime you have symptoms or concerns. Your provider may recommend more frequent testing based on your health history.
Watch for STI warning signs such as unusual discharge, pain or burning when urinating, sores, bumps, or rashes, and pelvic pain. Keep in mind that many STIs and HIV may not have symptoms, which is why regular testing is important. That means you can feel fine and still have an infection. The good news is that testing is simple, quick, and often part of routine care. Early detection can help prevent serious health problems and protect your partner.
Screenings and coverage
Screenings are for people who feel well and want to stay that way. When cancer is found early, treatment is often simpler, recovery can be easier, and outcomes are better. Taking time now for these tests can protect your health for years to come.
Many screenings — like cervical cancer tests, colorectal screenings, and mammograms — are covered by most insurance plans. If you don’t have insurance, there are programs and organizations that can help cover the cost. STI testing and treatment are also often covered, and low-cost or free options may be available. Talk with your provider about what’s available to you.
Take care of you
It’s easy to take care of everyone else first, but your health matters, too. If you are due for a screening, now is a good time to schedule it. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait — always talk to your provider about any changes or concerns.
At Finger Lakes Community Health, we are here to make care simple and supportive. From routine screenings to follow-up care, our team is ready to help you stay healthy.