4 Cancer Screening Tests You Need to Do

By Adebowale Bello. B.Tech Microbiology, Freelance Health Writer. Medically reviewed by the DLHA Team.

Infographics: 4 Cancer screening tests to do. Click on image to enlarge.

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide but early detection can significantly improve survival rates. Many cancers develop silently, showing no symptoms until they have advanced. This is why regular cancer screening is crucial as it helps detect cancer in its early stages when treatment is most effective.  

To commemorate February as National Cancer Prevention Month, this blog outlines four essential cancer screening tests you should prioritize.

1. Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers; it affects the colon or rectum and often starts as small, harmless polyps that can turn cancerous over time. Regular screening can help detect and remove polyps before they turn cancerous.

Who Should Get Screened?

• If you are 45 years or older and at average risk, you should begin colorectal screening.

• If you have a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors—obesity, family history of disease—you may need to start screening earlier.

• People in good health should continue screening until age 75, while those between 76 and 85 should consult a doctor about whether to continue testing.

How to Get Screened

• Colonoscopy: This test involves a detailed examination of the colon. It is recommended every 10 years.

• Stool-Based Tests: These tests check for hidden blood in stool samples. The FIT or HSgFOBT tests should be done yearly, while stool DNA-FIT tests are recommended every 1–3 years.

• Other Options: A flexible sigmoidoscopy (every five years) or a CT colonography (every five years) can also be considered.

2. Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally. It occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the breast tissue. Some risk factors include genetics, age and hormonal influences but early detection through screening improves the chances of successful treatment.

Who Should Get Screened?

• Women aged 40 to 54 should have a mammogram every year.

• Women aged 55 and older can undergo mammograms every two years or continue yearly screenings based on their doctor’s advice.

• Women should also be familiar with how their breasts normally feel and report any changes to a doctor immediately.

How to Get Screened

• Mammogram: A low-dose X-ray of the breast that can detect lumps or abnormalities. It is the most effective way to screen for breast cancer.

• Additional Tests: Women with dense breast tissue may need further tests like ultrasound or MRI for a better check.

3. Lung Cancer Screening

Lung cancer is mainly caused by long-term smoking, but non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke or air pollution can also develop the disease. It is a deadly cancer that often goes undetected until it has spread. Regular screening with low-dose CT scans can catch it early, improving survival rates. 

Who Should Get Screened?

• Adults aged 50 to 80 years who have a history of 20 pack-years of smoking (e.g., smoking a pack per day for 20 years or two packs per day for 10 years).

• Individuals who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years should also get screened.

How to Get Screened

• Low-Dose CT Scan (LDCT): This special type of X-ray provides detailed images of the lungs, helping detect cancer early before symptoms appear.

4. Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland and is most common in older men, particularly among African men who are at a higher risk than other populations. It can grow slowly without symptoms but aggressive forms can spread quickly.

Who Should Get Screened?

• Men at average risk should speak to a doctor about screening from age 45.

• African men or those with a family history of prostate cancer (father or brother diagnosed before 65) should start discussions at 40 years old.

How to Get Screened

• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This blood test measures PSA levels, which can indicate prostate cancer risk. A high PSA level may lead to further tests.

Wrap Up

Cancer screenings save lives by detecting cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. If you are eligible for any of these tests, do not delay—speak to your doctor about getting screened.

In Africa, where access to healthcare can sometimes be a challenge, it is important that you take advantage of cancer screening programs available in hospitals, health centres, doctor's offices and mobile clinics near you. Encourage family members and friends to do the same, because prevention and early detection are keys to beating cancer.

Source: Rutgers Cancer Institute News Release

Related: Population Scale Cancer Screening in Africa: Is It Worth the Cost?

Published: February 24, 2025

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