Protect Your Health Today: Six Cancer Screenings Every Adult Should Know

Your future, the milestones, memories, and moments with loved ones, depends on one essential factor: your health.

While we plan careers, celebrations, and life goals, safeguarding that future often starts with something surprisingly simple: showing up for routine cancer screenings.

In the Philippines, Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH), the country’s first dedicated cancer hospital under Ayala Healthcare Holdings (AC Health), is making essential screenings more accessible with special rates until May 14, 2026. These screenings aren’t just tests, they’re investments in the life you’re building.

Here’s a practical guide to the six essential cancer screenings, who should get them, and what to expect.

1. Breast Cancer Screening

Early detection can make breast cancer highly treatable, even before symptoms appear.

Who should get screened:

• Women 40 and older: routine mammography (annual or every two years based on risk)
• Women 21–39: clinical breast evaluation, with ultrasound if needed
• Women with strong family history or hereditary risk: earlier imaging
• Continued mammography beyond 50, depending on risk and physician advice

What to expect: Mammogram and/or breast ultrasound.

Preparation tips: Avoid deodorants, powders, or lotions. Wear a two-piece outfit for convenience.

2. Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when screenings are consistent.

Who should get screened:

• Women starting at age 30 under local guidelines
• Pap smear every 3 years or HPV-based testing as advised
• Screening continues through age 65 depending on prior results
• Earlier evaluation if clinically indicated

What to expect: Pap smear or HPV test to detect early cellular changes.

Preparation tips: Avoid vaginal medications, douching, or intercourse 24–48 hours prior. Schedule outside menstruation if possible.

3. Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer often develops silently. Early screening can interrupt its progression.

Who should get screened:

• Adults starting at age 45
• Annual FIT test or colonoscopy every 10 years, depending on risk
• Earlier screening for those with a first-degree family history
• Screening may continue up to age 75 depending on health

What to expect: Colonoscopy or stool-based tests.

Preparation tips: Follow bowel prep instructions for colonoscopy and arrange transportation due to sedation.

4. Lung Cancer Screening (High-Risk Individuals)

Annual low-dose CT scans can detect lung cancer early in high-risk adults.

Who should get screened:

• Ages 50–80
• 20 pack-year smoking history or more
• Current smokers or those who quit within 15 years

What to expect: Low-dose CT scan.

Preparation tips: No special preparation. Remove metal objects before the scan.

5. Liver Cancer Surveillance (High-Risk Individuals)

Consistent monitoring helps detect liver changes early, often before symptoms appear.

Who should get screened:

• People with chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, or advanced liver disease
• Ultrasound ± AFP testing every 6 months

What to expect: Blood panel and/or imaging.

Preparation tips: Fasting usually not required, but confirm with your doctor.

6. Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate screening often begins with a PSA discussion and testing when appropriate.

Who should get screened:

• Discussion may start at age 50
• High-risk individuals: from age 45
• Earlier conversation for those with strong family history

What to expect: PSA blood test and discussion with your doctor.

Preparation tips: Avoid strenuous exercise 24–48 hours prior. Inform your physician about recent infections or procedures.

When Screening Should Start Earlier

Certain conditions call for earlier or more frequent screenings:

• BRCA1 / BRCA2 mutations or hereditary cancer syndromes
• Strong family history of cancer
• Chronic liver disease
• Autoimmune or inherited metabolic conditions

Screening schedules are personalized based on risk and medical history.

Taking Control of Your Health

Effective cancer screening isn’t just about access, it’s about clarity. At HCCH, screenings are interpreted in an oncology-led environment, ensuring specialists guide next steps if further evaluation is needed.

The life you’re building deserves protection, not someday, but today. Take advantage of preferential rates available until May 14, 2026, and secure your peace of mind.

Schedule your consultation at Healthway Cancer Care Hospital now and make proactive health a priority.