Screening & Diagnosis
Screenings can help detect cancer early, when treatment is most likely to work. We can help you identify the best screenings for you.
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Early Detection Can Save Lives
Screenings look for signs of cancer before people have any symptoms associated with cancer. Diagnostic procedures investigate symptoms or screening results to identify if cancer is present.
An annual checkup with your primary care provider is the best way to identify the cancer screenings important for you based on your age, gender and personal risk profile. Routine annual exams:
Should start at age 20 for adults
Can include exams for cancers of the thyroid, oral cavity, skin and lymph nodes
For women: Can include exam for ovarian cancer
For men: Can include exam for testicular cancer
Annual mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 for those of average risk.
Recommendations can be personalized based on risk factors and screening results.
High risk screening includes more frequent screening and additional tests.
3D mammograms are available at NMMC Breast Care Center and NMHS hospitals.
Pap test is recommended every three years for women ages 21-29.
Pap test and HPV test are recommended every five years for women 30-65.
Women vaccinated against HPV should still seek cervical cancer screening.
Pap tests can be performed by gynecologists and primary care providers.
Screening should begin at age 45 for those at average risk.
Adults at higher risk may need to begin screening earlier.
Screening interval depends on the test chosen and results.
Colonoscopy allows for detection and removal of polyps in one procedure.
Colonoscopies are performed by gastroenterologists and surgeons.
Stool-based tests include FIT and DNA; positive results require colonoscopy.
Colonoscopies are performed at NMHS facilities in Tupelo, Amory, West Point & Hamilton, Alabama.
Read more about colon cancer screening here
Screening with low dose CT scans should begin at age 50 for heavy smokers.
Current guidelines identify heavy smokers as those with a 20 pack-year history.
The screening recommendations include both current smokers and those who have quit in the past 15 years.
20 pack-years = 1 pack a day for 20 years or 2 packs a day for 10 years.
Low dose CT is available at Barnes Crossing Medical Imaging and NMHS hospitals.
Read more about lung cancer lung cancer screening here.
At age 50, men at average risk should discuss screening with their provider.
African-Americans and men with a father or brother with prostate cancer should begin at age 45.
Screening includes a PSA blood test with or without a rectal exam.
Follow up testing depends on PSA levels.
Prostate screening is available from primary care providers and urologists.
Endometrial cancer: Discuss risks & signs with doctor at menopause.
Skin cancer: Examine skin routinely; report unusual, large or changing moles.
Genetic counseling: Explore based on family history of cancer
Related Locations
Mississippi’s only cancer center with all 4 accreditations
Commission On Cancer Accredited Program
Commission on Cancer conducts evaluation every three years; NMMC accredited since 1981.
ACR Designated Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center
NMMC Breast Care Center designated comprehensive center by American College of Radiology
ACR Designated Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center
NMMC Breast Care Center designated comprehensive center by American College of Radiology
ACS accredits NMMC’s breast care program
Meets national standards for comprehensive, patient-centered, multidisciplinary care.
Patient Stories
‘Never Be Too Afraid to Check it Out’
Kristie Davis was only 33 years old when she found a lump in her breast
Survivor Advocates for Colon Cancer Screening
Shannon farmer celebrates 10 years as a cancer survivor
Breathing New Life into Lung Cancer Surgery
Robotic lung surgery offers patients less pain, excellent outcomes
‘Never Be Too Afraid to Check it Out’
Kristie Davis was only 33 years old when she found a lump in her breast
Survivor Advocates for Colon Cancer Screening
Shannon farmer celebrates 10 years as a cancer survivor
Breathing New Life into Lung Cancer Surgery
Robotic lung surgery offers patients less pain, excellent outcomes
Related Resources
View AllLearn about fields connected to Cancer Care
Call 1-800-THE DESK (1-800-843-3375) or find a provider near you.
Clinical Research
Cancer Care physicians actively contribute to research to improve care for current and future patients. Trials are available for all stages of cancer and include treatments, testing for biomarkers and lab devices.
Clinical Research
Cancer Care physicians actively contribute to research to improve care for current and future patients. Trials are available for all stages of cancer and include treatments, testing for biomarkers and lab devices.