Cancer Screening & Diagnosis
Ridgeview offers a number of cancer prevention and detection screenings. Recommendations may vary based on family and personal history and a variety of other factors. Always consult with your primary care provider on which screenings are right for you.
Cancer Screenings
Breast cancer screening (mammogram). Ridgeview recommends an annual mammogram for women beginning at the age of 40. According to the American Cancer Society, over the course of a lifetime, one in eight women will develop breast cancer. Early breast cancer usually does not cause symptoms — this is why regular screening is important. Request your mammogram.
Colon and rectal cancer screening (colonoscopy). Colorectal cancer is one of the five most common forms of cancer in the U.S., and one of the top causes of cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. Early detection is crucial, which is why a colonoscopy is an important tool for discovering polyps and treating this cancer early. Beginning at age 45, both men and women should be screened every ten years. Request your colon screening.
Gynecological cancer screenings including cervical and ovarian. A Pap test is recommended beginning at age 21 for cervical cancer screening. When a woman reaches age 30, a human papillomavirus (HPV) test is recommended, which checks for any abnormalities that could lead to cervical cancer. Both are repeated every one to three years, based on health history. Request an appointment.
Lung cancer screening. Lung cancer, primarily caused by tobacco smoking, is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. When detected early — before symptoms are present — lung cancer is more effectively treated. A CT Low-dose lung scan is recommended for smokers and former smokers meeting certain criteria.
Prostate cancer screening. A blood test called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test measures the level of PSA in the blood to screen for prostate cancer in men. Speak with your primary care provider to see if it is recommended that you be screened for prostate cancer. Request an appointment.
Skin cancer screening. According to Ridgeview dermatologists, those with a history of excessive sun exposure, many sunburns, or personal or family history of skin cancer should establish a relationship with a dermatologist to have regular skin checks and learn the warning signs of skin cancer. Request an appointment.
Minnesota’s Cancer Screening Program, SAGE, offers free breast, cervical and colorectal cancer for men and women who meet the eligibility requirements. Call 1-888-6HEALTH to see if you’re eligible.
Cancer Diagnosis
Diagnostic imaging services are available for all cancers. These may include imaging procedures (e.g., MRI, CT, PET/CT and ultrasound) which produce pictures of areas inside the body and endoscopy, which allows the doctor to look directly inside certain organs; and laboratory tests. In most cases, the doctor also orders a biopsy, a procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed. A pathologist then examines the tissue under a microscope to check for cancer cells. These diagnostic services include:
