Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. The multidisciplinary care team at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute offers compassionate support for early detection and diagnosis.
This guide outlines screening recommendations for breast, colorectal, lung, cervical, prostate, and skin cancers.
Breast Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Women aged 40+ at average risk.
Those with a family history or risk factors should consult their provider—possibly starting before age 40.
Screening Methods
Mammogram: X-ray to detect tumors before they're felt.
Breast MRI: For high-risk patients (e.g., genetic/family history).
Breast Ultrasound: Useful for dense breast tissue; often paired with a mammogram.
What to Expect
Mammograms involve brief compression of the breast. Some discomfort may occur but is temporary and crucial for early detection.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Adults 45–75 regularly.
Under 45? Talk to your provider if you have a family history or genetic risks.
Over 75? Screening decisions should be based on individual health status.
Screening Methods
Colonoscopy: Camera exam of the colon; usually every 10 years.
FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test): At-home stool test; no prep needed.
CT Colonography: 3D imaging of the colon (virtual colonoscopy).
What to Expect
Colonoscopy requires prep and sedation. Follow-ups may vary based on results.
FIT is simple and non-invasive.
Lung Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Adults 50–80 with a 20+ pack-year smoking history, who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
Screening Method
Low-dose CT (LDCT): Quick scan with low radiation.
What to Expect
Non-invasive. Requires holding your breath briefly during imaging.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Women 21–65:
Ages 21–29: Pap test every 3 years
Ages 30–65: Pap + HPV test every 5 years, or Pap alone every 3 years
Screening Methods
Pap Test: Collects cervical cells to detect precancers.
HPV Test: Identifies high-risk strains of HPV.
What to Expect
A quick procedure with minor discomfort; important for early detection.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Men 50+
Higher risk (African American men, family history, BRCA2 carriers): Start discussing screening at age 40
Screening Methods
PSA Test: Blood test for prostate-specific antigen.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Physical check of the prostate.
What to Expect
PSA: Simple blood draw.
DRE: Brief procedure, may cause slight discomfort.
Skin Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Anyone with:
Suspicious or abnormal skin areas
50+ moles or atypical moles
Personal or family history of melanoma
Positive gene testing (BRCA2, Lynch syndrome)
Screening Methods
Skin Exam: Visual check by a provider.
Biopsy: Sample taken for testing if needed.
What to Expect
Skin exam: Non-invasive.
Biopsy: Minor procedure with local anesthesia if necessary.
Expert Advice: Protect Your Skin
Limit sun exposure 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Use shade, hats, protective clothing and broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen
Skin screenings may not be annual, but are more important with age
Questions to Ask Your Provider
What is my cancer risk?
Which screening tests are right for me?
What are the benefits and risks of each?
How often should I get screened?
What happens if a test is abnormal?
Why Screenings Matter
Routine cancer screenings are essential for catching cancer early—when it’s most treatable. Talk with your healthcare provider about the right screenings for your personal risk. Taking action today could save your life tomorrow.
Managing lymphedema effectively is essential for enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. Katherine Bunker, a Physical Therapist and Certified Lymphedema Therapist (PT, DPT, CLT) at Renown, has expertise in this area and her insights offer valuable strategies for managing lymphedema.
Renown Employee Honored at Nevada Basketball Cancer Awareness Game
Renown Health and Nevada Wolf Pack Basketball teamed up to “Take Charge Against Cancer,” raising awareness and funds during the Men’s Basketball game on Saturday, Feb. 21. Amber, Manager of Imaging at Renown South Meadows Medical Center, was recognized during the game and presented with the game ball, a meaningful moment shared with her sister, one of her sons and her boyfriend.
BRCA2 and Breast Cancer Risk: A Mother and Daughter’s Story
Learn how Toni Ruff, her daughter Emily and their family members turned genetic insights from Renown's Healthy Nevada Project into proactive prevention.
The summer of 2021 was anything but normal for Toni Ruff and her family, and it had little to do with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It went deeper, all the way down to her DNA – and as the Ruffs would soon find out, the entire family’s DNA as well, including Toni's daughter, Emily.
