Screening Tests That Can Save Your Life: By Age

Preventive screening is one of the most powerful tools in modern medicine. The right imaging test at the right time can detect cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis before symptoms appear — when treatment is most effective and outcomes are best.

Why Screening Matters

Screening tests look for disease in people who feel healthy. The goal is early detection:

• Breast cancer detected at Stage 1 has a 99% five-year survival rate
• Lung cancer detected early has an 80% five-year survival rate (vs 7% at Stage 4)
• Colon cancer screening reduces mortality by 68%, per the American Cancer Society
• Osteoporosis treated before a fracture prevents disability and complications

Screening by Age Group

Ages 20-39: Foundation Years

Most young adults do not need routine imaging screening, but certain tests may be recommended:

• Clinical breast exam — Every 1 to 3 years for women (not imaging, but may lead to imaging)
• Testicular ultrasound — If a lump or abnormality is found
• Baseline imaging — If you have a strong family history of cancer, your doctor may recommend early screening

High-risk exception: Women with BRCA gene mutations or a first-degree relative with breast cancer may begin annual breast MRI as early as age 25.

Ages 40-49: Screening Begins

This is when most routine imaging screening starts:

• Mammogram — Annual 3D mammography recommended starting at age 40 by the ACR
• Breast MRI — Annual for high-risk women (in addition to mammography)
• Colonoscopy — The ACS recommends starting at age 45 (not imaging, but related to preventive care)

Ages 50-64: Peak Prevention

Screening expands during these years:

• Mammogram — Continue annually
• Low-dose lung CT — For adults aged 50 to 80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years. This is the USPSTF recommendation and is covered by most insurance
• DEXA bone density scan — Recommended for women at age 65 or earlier if risk factors are present (early menopause, steroid use, family history, low body weight). Learn about DEXA at AMI
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening — One-time ultrasound for men aged 65 to 75 who have ever smoked
• Coronary calcium scoring — CT scan that measures calcium in heart arteries; may be recommended for intermediate cardiovascular risk patients

Ages 65+: Continued Vigilance

Screening continues with some adjustments:

• Mammogram — Continue as long as you are in good health and have a life expectancy of 10+ years
• DEXA scan — Every 2 years for women (or more frequently if being treated for osteoporosis)
• Low-dose lung CT — Continue annually if you meet criteria
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm — One-time screening for men if not yet done

Screening Tests Available at AMI

At Advanced Medical Imaging in Seminole, FL, we offer:

• 3D Mammography — Hologic tomosynthesis with CAD
• DEXA Bone Density — Hologic Horizon Wi scanner
• CT Scans — Including low-dose lung screening
• Ultrasound — Including aortic screening
• MRI — Including breast MRI for high-risk patients

How to Know What You Need

The best way to determine which screening tests are right for you is to talk with your primary care doctor. Factors they consider include:

• Your age and sex
• Family history of cancer, heart disease, or osteoporosis
• Smoking history
• Personal medical history
• Risk factors (obesity, hormonal factors, genetic mutations)

Do Not Skip Your Screenings

Screening saves lives — but only if you actually get screened. Many imaging screening tests are covered by insurance at no cost as preventive services, including:

• Screening mammograms (Medicare and most commercial plans)
• Low-dose lung CT (for eligible patients)
• DEXA scans (for eligible patients)

Call (727) 398-5999 or schedule online to book your next screening at AMI. We accept most insurance plans.

Sources: - ACS — Screening Guidelines - USPSTF — Screening Recommendations - ACR — Screening Guidelines