Cancer

Cancer is not a single disease but a group of related diseases. Many things in our genes, our lifestyle, and the environment around us may increase or decrease our risk of getting cancer. If you have cancer, you have a higher risk of severe COVID-19.

Press Here for Medicaid/Apple Health Resources

You may qualify for Apple Health if you are:

  • An adult aged 19 to 64 years old
  • Applying for a child or are a parent or caretaker applying with children
  • Pregnant or applying for someone who is pregnant

Apply for or renew your Apple Health coverage through these methods:

You may qualify for Apple Health Classic if you are:

  • An adult age 65 or older
  • Blind or disabled
  • Need long-term services and supports

Apply for or renew your Apple Health Classic coverage through these methods:

Detection

  • Colon Cancer Screening

    • All adults between ages 45-75 should start routine screening for colorectal cancer.

    • If you have a family history of polyps or colon cancer - healthcare provider might recommend a different screening schedule

  • Breast Cancer

    • Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early

    • Women ages 50 and over should be screened

    • Women ages 40-49 should talk to their healthcare provider about when to start screening

    • If you have a history or family history of breast cancer, talk to your healthcare provider - they may recommend a different schedule for screening

  • Cervical Cancer Screening

    • Women should be screened regularly for cervical cancer

    • Pap test and HPV tests can be used to screen for cervical cancer

    • HPV causes cervical cancer - getting the HPV vaccine while young can prevent cervical cancer (Even when vaccinated, you should continue to get screened)

    • People ages 21 - 65 should get the Pap test every 3 years

Concerned about Cancer?

You don’t have to have symptoms to have cancer.

Screening tests can catch cancer early!

Tell your healthcare professional if you have a family history of cancer.

Early or frequent screening can make a difference.

More information:

Made possible in part by a grant from the Washington State Department of Health. This information does not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Washington State Department of Health or the Department of Health and Human Services.