How to Use the Cancer Screening Schedule Calculator
Unlike countries that run a single, unified national cancer screening program, the United States has no equivalent all-in-one system. Instead, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) — an independent panel of experts — issues separate, cancer-specific recommendations, each with its own eligibility age, sex requirement, and interval. This calculator enters your age, sex, and smoking history to show which major cancer screenings apply to you right now, when you'll become eligible if not yet, and how often each is recommended.
Under current USPSTF guidance, colorectal cancer screening starts at age 45 with colonoscopy every 10 years (or other options at shorter intervals). Breast cancer screening is recommended for women starting at 40 with mammography every 2 years. Cervical cancer screening starts at 21 (see our dedicated cervical screening tool for the full age-based breakdown). Lung cancer screening applies only to high-risk current or former smokers aged 50-80 with at least a 20 pack-year history, using annual low-dose CT.
This tool reflects general USPSTF guidance for average-risk adults. If you have a family history of cancer, genetic risk factors, or other conditions, your doctor may recommend starting earlier or screening more frequently than these standard intervals. This result does not replace a medical diagnosis, and your exact screening plan should always be decided together with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Unlike countries with a unified national screening program, the US relies on the USPSTF (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force) issuing separate, cancer-specific recommendations, and coverage details can vary by insurance plan.
Most USPSTF Grade A and B recommended screenings are covered with no out-of-pocket cost under the ACA for plans that comply with it. Confirm your specific coverage with your insurance provider.