Screening tests for certain types of cancer are available and can save lives. The goal of screening is to find early changes in people who do not have any symptoms of the disease. No screening test is 100% accurate, and there is no “one test” for every cancer. But when cancer screening is done, particularly through an organized screening program, it has great potential to reduce incidence rates of some cancers, and through early detection, reduce mortality rates of other cancers. In Ontario, we currently have three types of organized screening programs:
- Breast screening – through the Ontario Breast Screening Program
- Cervical screening– the Ontario Cervical Screening Program develops screening guidelines, Pap smears are available through community health care providers
- Colorectal screening – through Ontario’s new ColonCancerCheck program.
Currently, not enough Ontarians take advantage of the screening and early detection programs available to them. Some people may be considered at higher risks for certain cancers due to their own personal risk factors (i.e. family history), and may have recommendations above the provincial guidelines. It is important to talk to your family doctor about age -appropriate screening and what guidelines are in your best interests.
Breast Screening and Early Detection
Cervical Screening
Colorectal Screening