Cancer Prevention and Screening Guidelines

The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County (DOH-Monroe) encourages all residents to get screened early. Early detection saves lives! DOH-Monroe recommends that anyone who meets the cancer screening guidelines outlined below should contact their primary care provider to inquire about local facilities that offer cancer screenings. 

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is predominantly a disease among women and is the most common type of cancer among women in the United States. 

Screening for breast cancer is typically done through diagnostic imaging, known as a mammogram, that uses a low-dose X-ray to show images of the breast tissue. The images are evaluated by a medical professional. If the mammogram shows an abnormal area of the breast, your health care provider may order additional tests.  

Screening:

• Begin mammograms at age 40
• Annual screening is preferred; biennial may be appropriate based on personal risk and provider guidance

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active
• Limit alcohol to no more than 1 drink per day
• Avoid all tobacco use

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer usually forms slowly over many years, but occasionally it happens faster. The purpose of the Pap test is to detect abnormal cells in the cervix, and the HPV test looks for the human papillomavirus that can cause these cell changes. These two screening tests, used as recommended by your health care provider, can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early.

DOH-Monroe's Family Planning Program offers Pap tests to women of child-bearing age as part of routine visits for existing clients

Screening:

• Ages 21–29: Pap test every 3 years
• Ages 30–65: Choose one of the following:
  
  • Pap test every 3 years
  • HPV test every 5 years
  • Co-testing (Pap + HPV) every 5 years 
• Over 65: Stop screening if prior results were normal and there’s no history of high-grade precancer

Prevention Tips:

• Get the HPV vaccine (recommended through age 26)
• Practice safe sex
• Keep up with routine screening

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a growth of cells that starts in the prostate. It is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in men. Prostate cancer is usually found early, and it often grows slowly. Prostate cancer diagnosis often starts with an exam and a blood test. 

Screening:

• Age 50: Begin discussing PSA testing (average risk)
• Age 45: Begin discussion if at higher risk (e.g., African American men or family history)
• PSA tests may be repeated every 1 - 2 years if chosen

Prevention Tips:

• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay active and maintain a healthy weight
• Limit red and processed meat consumption

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. A change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. This could be a new growth, a sore that won't heal, or a change in the appearance of a mole. Not all skin cancers look the same. If you notice changes in your skin, talk with your health care provider. 

Screening:

• No routine full-body skin screening for the general population
• Perform monthly self-exams and monitor for new or changing moles or spots
• See a provider annually if you are at higher risk (fair skin, many moles, frequent sun exposure)

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid tanning beds
• Seek shade and wear protective clothing, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in the United States that affect both men and women. Routine screening for colorectal cancer can save lives. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.

Screening:

• Start screening at age 45
• Continue through age 75, based on provider recommendations
• Screening options include:
  
  • Colonoscopy every 10 years
  • FIT (fecal immunochemical test) every year
  • Stool DNA test every 3 years
  • CT colonography or sigmoidoscopy, as advised

Prevention Tips:

• Eat a high-fiber, low red/processed meat diet
• Maintain a healthy weight and stay active
• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
• Get enough calcium and vitamin D

Resources

Florida Cancer Connect
A central resource hub for cancer patients, caregivers, and loved ones of those impacted by cancer. 

Cancer Foundation of the Florida Keys
Assistance with rent, food, transportation, utilities, cancer education, and support services. Contact: 305-294-7300

American Cancer Society
Education, research, advocacy, support groups, resource referrals, follow-up care, and transportation to appointments. Contact: 305-594-4363

Cancer Resources Directory