Detect Cancer at its Earliest Stages

Secondary prevention efforts can have a significant impact on the cancer burden in Idaho by reducing overall new cases and deaths from the disease. Detecting a cancer at its earliest stage, or even as a precancerous lesion, can act as a “preventive” measure by not allowing the disease to progress to a later stage when treatment regimens are not as effective. The recommended age to begin screening, as well as the methodologies used, varies by each cancer type as well as other factors. The CCAI has identified the early detection and screening of cancer as a priority area for cancer control efforts in Idaho.

Routine screenings for the following cancer types are currently recommended for the general population by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF):

• Breast cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Colorectal cancer

The USPSTF also recommends annual screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) in adults aged 55 to 80 years who have a 30 pack-a-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. CCAI also encourages routine oral cancer screenings as recommended by a clinician.