Cancer Screening Tests

📅 Last Updated: April 2026 | 🩺 Medically Reviewed by: Edward Salko, D.O., Medical Director | 🧪 Lab Partner: Labcorp

Cancer is a widespread disease, affecting 1 in 3 Americans, according to the American Cancer Society. Cancer is also invasive — its malignant cells can sprout in tumors or blood and silently multiply, even spreading to other parts of the body. Even worse, some cancers don’t trigger symptoms until the later stages of the disease. At that point, the cancer can be much more difficult to treat, and the prognosis may not be as favorable.

Cancer blood tests are a reliable method for detecting abnormal cells in the body, so you can be proactive in getting any necessary cancer care. You can choose specific tests for several types of cancer or get standard tests to evaluate your risks.

What Cancer Blood Tests Can and Cannot Tell You

Cancer blood tests are a powerful early warning tool — but understanding what they measure helps you interpret results accurately.

Cancer biomarkers are proteins, hormones, or other substances produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer. An elevated marker does not confirm cancer — it signals that further investigation is warranted. Conversely a normal marker does not completely rule out cancer. Markers are most valuable when tracked over time and interpreted alongside symptoms and imaging.

PSA and prostate cancer: PSA is the most widely used cancer marker. A PSA above 4.0 ng/mL warrants discussion with a physician. However PSA can also be elevated by benign prostate enlargement, inflammation, or recent physical activity. The PSA velocity — how fast PSA is rising over time — is often more clinically meaningful than a single result. Annual testing
gives you a baseline and allows you to track trends.

CBC and blood cancers: A Complete Blood Count with differential is the starting point for detecting leukemia and lymphoma. Abnormal white blood cell counts, anemia, and low platelets together create a pattern that prompts further evaluation. If your CBC shows unexplained abnormalities a hematologist referral is the appropriate next step.

All cancer marker tests at Personalabs are processed through Labcorp — the nation’s largest clinical laboratory network — using the same testing methodology as hospital and physician office labs.

Reviewed by Edward Salko, D.O., Medical Director, Personalabs

The Role of Cancer Blood Tests

Blood tests for cancer are often ordered by physicians as a diagnostic measure. These tests may be recommended if you have symptoms associated with certain cancers. You may also get blood work to detect cancer if there is a family history of the disease

The thought of having cancer can be scary. Our cancer screening blood tests aim to replace the fear with empowerment, giving you the information you need to make wise health decisions. You don’t need to wait for a doctor’s appointment to get checked for cancer. Just order one of our cancer screening tests and have the blood work performed at one of our 4,000-plus partner labs across the country.

Types of Blood Work to Detect Cancer

Blood work for cancer can detect cancerous cells; for instance, leukemia labs could consist of a complete blood count to spot potential malignancies or other abnormalities. There are also blood tests for cancer markers, which are substances produced by tumors or other cells in response to cancer.

There’s no need to search the internet for “cancer screenings near me.” You’re sure to find a simple and convenient location for your blood work when you order tests from Personalabs.

Who Should Get Tested for Cancer Markers?

Cancer can affect anyone, so you may choose to have screenings done each year as part of your annual health checkups. Cancer screening tests are advised if you have a family history of the disease or present symptoms that may indicate cancer. 

When to Do Cancer Screening Tests?

The American Cancer Society offers screening guidelines for common cancers, but earlier and more frequent testing may be recommended if you have a family history of cancer. You should also get tested if you have symptoms and want to rule out cancer. 

Get Tested for Cancer Near You

Take control of your health. Learn more about our tests and how to find cancer screening near you.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cancer Screening Blood Tests