Where to get free cancer screenings

Screening is critical to detect cancer early
More than 2 million new cancer cases are expected in 2024
Cancer deaths in 2024 are expected to top 600,000

Updated: Feb 8, 2024 / 02:04 PM EST

WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 13: Colorectal cancer awareness installation and rally on the National Mall to showcase the increasing number of cases in young adults on March 13, 2023 in Washington, DC. The installation is a visual representation of more than 27,400 people under the age of 50 estimated to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2030. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images for Fight Colorectal Cancer)

(NewsNation) — More than two million cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2024 with more than 600,000 cancer deaths expected. Among men, prostate cancer is the most common, while breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Lung cancer and colorectal cancer are leading cancers among both genders.

Screening is critical for catching cancer early and increasing the odds of successful treatment and survival but roughly 25.6 Americans lack health insurance and 23% of U.S. adults are underinsured, meaning they have insurance that doesn’t provide adequate or affordable coverage.

But free or low-cost cancer screenings are available. Here’s a guide of where to look.

1. Public Health Departments

Many public health departments hold free cancer screening events or offer other help in getting screening tests done. Search the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Health Department Directory to find your local department.

2. Federally Qualified Health Centers

Funded in part by the government, these clinics are designed to offer low-cost preventative care for patients regardless of their insurance status. A directory of FQHCs is searchable online.

3. Planned Parenthood

While the organization is most widely known for providing reproductive health care, many Planned Parenthood clinics also offer other preventative services, including cancer screenings, usually with sliding-scale options for payment. Find a local Planned Parenthood through their website.

4. Free Clinics

These clinics are typically staffed by volunteers and rely on donations to operate. Many offer cancer screenings among their services. Search for a local free clinic here.

5. Hill Burton Programs

Non-profit community hospitals established under this program provide free or low-cost services for those on a limited income. Search for qualified programs in your area.

6. Hospital Screening Events

Hospitals and health care systems may also have programs that offer free cancer screenings periodically. Check with your local health system to see what they offer and find out how to stay informed about events.