Annual breast cancer screenings, mammograms, are recommended every year starting at age 40

• Screenings can switch to a bi-yearly schedule after age 55

Your doctor may recommend a different mammogram schedule if you are at a higher risk for breast cancer:

• If you or a first-degree relative already have breast cancer
• You carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation
• Have a history of multiple c

All women should have a Pap test to screen for cervical cancer from ages 21 to 65.

• From 21 to 29, women should get tested every three years
• Beginning at age 30 to age 65, the preferred way to screen with a Pap test combined with a HPV test every five years.
• A Pap test every three years is also an option for screening after age 30. 

Two main early detection tests for prostate cancer are testing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in blood and digital rectum exams (DRE)​

Consult your doctor as to which test and how often you should be tested. These conversations can start at:​

— Age 50, for men who are at an average risk of prostate cancer, and are expected to live at least 10 more years

— Age 45, for men who are at higher risk for developing prostate cancer (African Americans and men who have a first degree relative with history of prostate cancer at an early age)

— Age 40, for men who have multiple first-degree relatives diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age.

For more information visit — American Cancer Society

Starting at age 50, men and women with average risk of colorectal cancer should get screened. These tests check for polyps, which could lead to cancer. There are a variety of screening methods:​

— Colonoscopy every 10 years
— CT Colonography every 5 years
— Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
— Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years

Cancer screening may need to begin earlier if you are at an increased risk. These include:​— People with a personal history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps
— People with a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
— A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps

For more information visit — American Cancer Society

Including a well-balanced diet in your life can help prevent certain cancers.​

• Limit foods with added sugar and solid fats—these foods include sugar-sweetened beverages, processed snack foods and desserts.
• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables (including beans!)—Studies show that including fruits and vegetables in your diet lowers your risk of lung, oral, esophageal, stomach, and colon cancers. Eat a range of colors! Consult USDA's MyPlate to figure out your serving size.
• Watch the red meat—Consuming large amounts of red meat, such as bacon, ham, and beef, can increase your risk of colon cancer, according to some studies. Enjoy your protein in moderation, by eating lean and plant-based sources of protein.
• Moderate your alcohol consumption—Evidence suggests that alcohol increases the risk of a number of cancers including liver, breast, pancreas, colon, and rectum cancers. Even though it is unclear to what extent alcohol affects cancer risk, try limiting your alcohol consumption to one drink a day (for women), or two drinks a day (for men).

Exercise helps protect against many cancers including colon and breast cancer by reducing weight and improving your immune system. Obesity has become a major risk factor and may explain the increase in young people getting colon cancer. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is recommended to aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day and reduce time spent sitting.