Cancer treatment is more likely to be successful when the cancer is diagnosed before it has spread. For many types of cancer, regular screening tests can help detect cancer early.

Currently, doctors can screen for cancers of the breast, colon, rectum, cervix, prostate, testes, mouth and mouth area, and skin. Screening tests for other cancers, such as lung and ovarian cancer, are currently being evaluated. Self-examination is also recommended for breast, skin, and testicular cancers, among others.

To determine which tests are most appropriate for each person, the doctor will consider a person's age, family history of cancer, ethnicity, and lifestyle. People at high risk for developing cancer should talk with their doctor about starting regular screening.

Read more about Cancer Screening.