(HealthDay News) -- Early detection, by way of regular screening, is one of the best ways to beat cancer.

The American Cancer Society offers these guidelines for cancer screenings:

  • Women, starting at age 40, should get an annual mammogram to screen for breast cancer. Breast exams should start at age 20. An annual exam is recommended at age 40. Before that, women at normal risk should be examined about every three years.
  • Beginning at age 50, women and men need regular screening for colorectal cancer. People at an increased risk for colorectal cancer should be tested earlier.
  • Women need regular Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer. Pap smears should be given within three years of starting intercourse, or by age 21, whichever is earlier.
  • Men 50 and older should get the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal examination annually. Men at higher risk should begin testing at age 45.