A screening is a test or exam to find a disease, such as cancer, in people who may not have any symptoms. According to the American Cancer Society, early detection through screening is your best chance to detect cancer at an early stage, when it can be treated more successfully. You can help prevent or control some cancers through diagnostic screenings like:

• colonoscopy or colon/rectal test for colorectal cancer
• skin cancer exams
• PSA tests and digital rectal exams for prostate cancer
• PAP smears for cervical cancer, and
• mammography for breast cancer

Colon/rectal cancer screening
Tests for colorectal cancer – such as colonoscopy – are proven lifesavers. In June 2011, Southern New Hampshire Medical Center became the first hospital in southern New Hampshire to begin using high-definition (HD) endoscopes during colonoscopy and upper endoscopy procedures. HD scopes are proven to increase detection rates of polyps up to 40 percent. Starting at age 50, you should talk to your doctor about your personal risk factors for colon or rectal cancer and get screened according to his/her recommendation.  

Skin cancer screening
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer in the United States. That’s why we offer free routine screenings that can help detect skin cancer in its earliest and most treatable form. Talk to your doctor about risk factors and what you can do to lower your risks. 

Prostate cancer screening
The American Cancer Society recommends that men make an informed decision with their doctors about whether to be tested for prostate cancer, since there are recognized risks and benefits to testing and treatment. Starting at age 50, talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of testing so you can decide if testing is the right choice for you. If you are African American or have a father or brother who had prostate cancer before age 65, you should have this talk with your doctor starting at age 45.

Cervical cancer screening
Cancer of the cervix may be prevented or detected early by regular Pap tests. The Pap test can tell if you have an infection, abnormal cervical cells, or cervical cancer. If detected early, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable cancers. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors and when you should be screened.  Free or low-cost cervical cancer screenings are available through New Hampshire's Let No Woman Be Overlooked Program for patients who meet income guidelines. You can also learn more by calling Lamprey Health Care at (603) 883-1626 or (603) 324-5162.

Mammography/breast imaging
A high-quality mammogram, plus a clinical breast exam, is the most effective way to detect breast cancer early, when it has the best chance for successful treatment. Talk to your doctor about when to get your first mammogram and how often you should be screened. At the deNicola Breast Health Center, we offer same-day mammograms. Call (603) 577-2727 between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm to schedule your exam for that day. We also offer online scheduling for future mammogram appointments, even if it’s a year away.

In addition, free or low-cost mammograms are available through New Hampshire's Let No Woman Be Overlooked Program for patients who meet income guidelines. To learn more, Call Lamprey Health Care at (603) 883-1626 or (603) 324-5162.

Learn more about screening guidelines recommended by The American Cancer Society.