Getting cancer exams regularly is one of the best ways to ensure that you are staying on top of your health. However, some people are unable to afford these vital exams.

Thankfully, there are many organizations that offer free cancer exams to those in need. Here are some of the available exams you can get for free:.

1. Clinical Breast Exam

Women between the ages of 20 and 40 should have a clinical breast exam every three years to check for any irregularities. Women over the age of 40 should have an exam every year.

During this exam, a healthcare professional will examine the breasts for any lumps, changes in shape, or other abnormalities. The exam takes only a few minutes and is an essential step in detecting breast cancer early.

2. Pap Tests

Pap tests are recommended for women between the ages of 21 and 65 to detect any abnormal cells on the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer. Many clinics and hospitals offer free pap tests to women who cannot afford them.

3. Skin Cancer Screening

People with a high risk of skin cancer, such as those with fair skin or a family history of the disease, should get regular skin cancer screenings.

During this screening, a healthcare professional will look for any moles or other growths that look unusual. Free skin cancer screenings are available at many clinics and hospitals.

4. Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but it is also one of the most preventable. Regular screenings can detect any abnormal growths in the colon or rectum before they become cancerous.

There are several screening tests available, including a fecal occult blood test, a sigmoidoscopy, and a colonoscopy. Many clinics and hospitals offer free or low-cost colorectal cancer screenings to those in need.

5. Prostate Cancer Screening

Men over the age of 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer should get regular prostate cancer screenings. The most common screening test is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.

If the PSA levels are high, further testing may be needed. Many clinics offer free or low-cost prostate cancer screenings.

6. Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer screenings are recommended for those at high risk of developing oral cancer, including smokers, heavy drinkers, and those with a family history of the disease.

During the exam, a healthcare professional will examine the mouth and throat for any abnormalities. Free oral cancer screenings are available at many clinics and hospitals.

7. Mammograms

A mammogram is a screening test that uses X-rays to detect any abnormalities in the breast tissue. Women over the age of 50 should get a mammogram every two years.

Women with a family history of breast cancer or those with certain genetic mutations may need to start screening at an earlier age. Many clinics and hospitals offer free mammograms to those in need.

8. Lung Cancer Screening

People at high risk of lung cancer, including smokers and those with a family history of the disease, should get regular lung cancer screenings. The most common screening test is a low-dose CT scan, which can detect any abnormalities in the lungs.

Free lung cancer screenings are available at many clinics and hospitals.

9. Genetic Counseling

People with a family history of cancer or those with certain genetic mutations may be at higher risk of developing certain types of cancer. Genetic counseling can help identify this risk and provide guidance on how to reduce this risk.

Many clinics and hospitals offer free or low-cost genetic counseling to those at risk.

10. Prophylactic Surgery

Prophylactic surgery involves removing healthy tissue or organs to reduce the risk of developing cancer. This is often recommended for those with a high risk of certain types of cancer, such as those with a BRCA gene mutation.

Some insurance plans may cover prophylactic surgery, but many clinics and hospitals offer free or low-cost surgery to those in need.