Ulta Lab Tests

Cancer and Tumor Marker Women's Screening

Women’s cancer screening combines proven imaging and procedures (e.g., mammography for breast cancer; HPV/Pap for cervical cancer; colorectal screening; LDCT for eligible smokers) with select lab tests. Routine tumor markers (like CA-125, CA 15-3/27.29, CEA, CA 19-9) are not recommended for population screening; they are mainly used to evaluate symptoms, risk, or monitor known cancer under clinician guidance. For average-risk women, mammography starts at age 40 on a biennial schedule (USPSTF), while cervical screening uses HPV/Pap per age and guideline. Emerging multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood tests should not replace standard screening. 

Signs & Situations (When to consider testing)

  • Screening age/risk: Begin mammography at 40 (USPSTF); follow a cervical HPV/Pap schedule (ACS/USPSTF). Discuss earlier or additional imaging if high-risk (e.g., BRCA carriers). 

  • Symptoms needing evaluation: new breast lump, nipple/skin changes; abnormal vaginal bleeding; persistent bloating/pelvic pain; unexplained weight loss—see your clinician (testing guided by exam).

  • Family history/genetics: multiple or early cancers in close relatives—consider genetic risk assessment and, if indicated, BRCA/multigene testing.

  • Ovarian concern: CA-125/HE4 are not screening tests for average-risk, symptom-free women; they may be used only in specific clinical evaluations (e.g., adnexal mass) or to monitor known disease. 

SEO synonyms: women’s cancer screening blood tests, CA-125, HE4, ROMA, CA 15-3, CA 27.29, HPV test, Pap test, BRCA testing, MCED blood test.

Why These Tests Matter

What women’s cancer labs can do

  • Support early detection with guideline screening: mammography (primary test for average-risk breast screening) and HPV/Pap for cervical screening. 

  • Identify inherited risk with BRCA1/2 or multigene panels after risk assessment/counseling.

  • Aid diagnosis/monitoring: tumor markers (e.g., CA-125 in ovarian cancer care; CA 15-3/27.29 or CEA in certain breast/GI settings) help track disease under oncology care—not to screen healthy people. 

What they cannot do

  • Replace mammograms or HPV/Pap for population screening.

  • Rule out cancer by themselves; abnormal or normal labs still require imaging and, when needed, biopsy.

  • MCED blood tests are adjuncts at most and do not replace standard screening pathways. 

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

Guideline screening tests

  • Breast: Mammography (2D/3D) for average-risk women starting at 40, every 2 years (USPSTF). ACS allows annual starting at 45 with the option at 40. High-risk may add MRI (clinician-directed). 

  • Cervix: Primary HPV every 5 yrs (ACS preferred, start 25), or Pap/HPV Pap per USPSTF age bands. FDA now permits self-collected HPV samples in a health-care setting (not fully at-home) for certain tests. 

  • Colorectal & Lung (for context): CRC screening 45–75; LDCT annually for 50–80 with ≥20 pack-years, quit <15 yrs.

Tumor markers (not for average-risk screening)

  • CA-125 ± HE4/ROMA: evaluation of an adnexal mass and monitoring in ovarian cancer; not for screening asymptomatic average-risk women.

  • CA 15-3 / CA 27.29 (breast): may be used to monitor metastatic disease; not recommended for screening or routine surveillance of asymptomatic survivors. ]

  • CEA / CA 19-9: sometimes used in GI cancer management; not screening tests.

  • Genetic risk tests: BRCA1/2 ± multigene panels—ordered after risk assessment & counseling to guide imaging intensity and family planning.

MCED tests

  • Blood-based multi-cancer tests are experimental adjuncts and do not replace recommended screenings.

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Order online: choose HPV/Pap (per guideline and availability), genetic risk tests if indicated, or oncologist-directed tumor markers for diagnosis/monitoring.

  2. Visit a nearby lab: quick blood draw (or collection for HPV/Pap where available).

  3. Get results fast: most labs post in 24–48 hours; genetics may take longer.

  4. Review with your clinician: labs complement imaging and exam to finalize next steps.

For routine breast screening, schedule a mammogram with your imaging provider; tumor markers do not replace mammography. 

Interpreting Results (general guidance)

  • HPV/Pap: an abnormal result guides follow-up (repeat testing or colposcopy); a normal test does not eliminate future risk—stay on schedule. (Follow ACS/USPSTF intervals.) 

  • CA-125/HE4: elevations are nonspecific and not diagnostic; useful only in specific clinical contexts or for monitoring known ovarian cancer. 

  • CA 15-3/CA 27.29: not recommended to screen or routinely surveil asymptomatic patients after early-stage treatment; trends may assist in metastatic settings alongside imaging. 

  • MCED: a negative result does not replace guideline screenings.

Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Average-risk screening:

    • Breast: mammography every 2 years starting at 40 (USPSTF); ACS allows annual 45–54 with option to start at 40.

    • Cervix: primary HPV q5y starting 25 (ACS) or Pap q3y 21–29, HPV/Pap options 30–65 (USPSTF). Self-collection currently allowed in health-care settings for certain HPV tests. 

  • High-risk (family history/BRCA, prior chest radiation): consider genetic testing and enhanced imaging (e.g., annual MRI mammogram) per clinician.

  • Ovarian concerns: reserve CA-125/HE4 for evaluation/monitoring, not screening.

  • MCED tests: consider only as an adjunct after discussing limits and follow-up needs; continue all standard screenings. 

FAQs

Is there a single blood test to screen women for all cancers?
No. MCED blood tests are not a replacement for mammograms, HPV/Pap, colon screening, or LDCT; if used, they are add-ons. 

Should I get a CA-125 test “just to check” for ovarian cancer?
Not if you’re average-risk and symptom-free. CA-125 (± HE4/ROMA) is not recommended for screening; it’s used in specific evaluations and monitoring. 

When do I start mammograms?
USPSTF: every 2 years from age 40 to 74. ACS: option to start at 40, annual 45–54, then every 2 years (or continue yearly). 

What’s new with cervical screening?
ACS prefers primary HPV every 5 years starting at 25; USPSTF allows Pap 21–29 and HPV/Pap options 30–65. FDA now allows self-collected HPV samples in health-care settings for certain tests. 

Are breast tumor markers (CA 15-3/27.29) useful for screening?
No. ASCO does not recommend them for screening or routine surveillance of asymptomatic survivors; they may help monitor metastatic disease alongside imaging. 

Internal Links & Cross-References

  • Cancer Screening Hub

  • Breast Cancer

  • Cervical Cancer

  • Ovarian Cancer

  • Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED)

  • Key Lab Tests : HPV Test • Pap Test • BRCA1/2 Panel • CA-125 • HE4/ROMA • CA 15-3 • CA 27.29 • CEA • CA 19-9

Available Tests & Panels

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 The CA-1 Cancer Screening - Women panel is specifically designed as an initial screening tool for the early detection of various cancers that commonly affect women. This panel combines several tumor markers and protein measurements, each carefully selected for their relevance in detecting specific cancer types. The panel is an important resource for those who are at increased risk of cancer, either due to family history, genetic predisposition, or other risk factors. By measuring specific biomarkers, this panel helps in identifying cancer at an early stage, where treatment can be more effective and less invasive.
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 The CA-2 Cancer Screening - Women panel is a specialized diagnostic tool designed for the early detection and ongoing monitoring of various cancers specifically in women. It expands upon basic cancer screening by including additional markers that provide a wider range of detection and insight into different types of cancers. This panel is particularly valuable for women who are at increased risk due to genetic predispositions, family history, or environmental factors. It helps in the early identification of cancer, potentially improving the effectiveness of treatments and increasing the chances of successful outcomes.
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 The CA-3 Cancer Screening - Women panel is an extensive diagnostic tool designed for an in-depth analysis of various cancer-related markers, specifically tailored for women. This advanced screening panel integrates additional markers to enhance the detection and monitoring capabilities for a broad spectrum of cancers. It is instrumental in providing a comprehensive overview of a woman's cancer risk profile, facilitating early intervention, and guiding effective treatment strategies.
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 The CA-4 Cancer Screening - Women panel is the most comprehensive diagnostic tool available for assessing cancer risk and monitoring the health of women potentially at high risk for various cancers. It encompasses an extensive range of biomarkers, each specifically chosen to detect early signs of cancer and monitor treatment progress or recurrence. This panel is essential for women with a significant family history of cancer, known genetic predispositions, or those who have had previous cancer diagnoses and need close surveillance.
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The Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) and AFP-L3 Test measures total AFP and the AFP-L3 fraction, which is more specific for liver cancer risk. Elevated AFP may indicate liver disease, germ cell tumors, or hepatitis, while AFP-L3 is strongly associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Doctors order this test to assess liver function, screen high-risk patients, and monitor cancer treatment. Results provide critical insight into liver health and cancer detection.

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Also Known As: AFP Test, Total AFP Test, Alpha-Fetoprotein Tumor Markers, Alpha-Fetoprotein Test
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The Amylase Test measures amylase enzyme levels in blood to evaluate pancreatic and digestive health. Elevated amylase may indicate pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, intestinal blockage, or salivary gland disorders, while low levels may suggest chronic pancreatitis or liver damage. Doctors order this test to investigate abdominal pain, nausea, or fever. Results provide vital insight into pancreatic function, digestive disorders, and overall metabolic health.

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Also Known As: Amy Test
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The CA 125 Test measures the level of cancer antigen 125 in blood, a protein often elevated in ovarian cancer and some other conditions. While not used alone for diagnosis, it helps monitor treatment effectiveness, detect recurrence, or assess disease progression. Elevated CA 125 may also be seen in endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammation. Doctors use this test to support cancer management and track overall reproductive and abdominal health.

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Also Known As: CA 125 Tumor Marker, Cancer Antigen 125 Test
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The CA 15-3 Test measures cancer antigen 15-3 levels in blood, often used to monitor breast cancer treatment and progression. Elevated levels may suggest advanced breast cancer, metastasis, or recurrence, while non-cancer conditions can also affect results. Doctors order this test alongside imaging and other labs to track therapy response or detect changes in disease status. Results help guide ongoing management of breast cancer and patient care.

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Also Known As: CA 15-3 Tumor Marker, Cancer Antigen 15-3 Test, CA-Breast Test, Cancer Antigen-Breast Test
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The CA 19-9 Test measures levels of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 in blood, a tumor marker often elevated in pancreatic cancer and sometimes in bile duct, colorectal, or liver cancers. While not used alone for diagnosis, it helps monitor treatment, track disease progression, and detect recurrence. Elevated CA 19-9 may also occur in noncancerous conditions. Doctors use this test to support cancer management and guide therapy decisions.

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Also Known As: CA 19-9 Tumor Marker, Cancer Antigen 19-9 Test
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The CA 27.29 Test measures cancer antigen 27.29 levels in blood to help monitor breast cancer treatment, progression, or recurrence. Elevated levels may indicate advanced or metastatic breast cancer, though non-cancer conditions can also affect results. Doctors order this test alongside imaging or other tumor markers to track therapy response. Results provide valuable insight for ongoing breast cancer management and long-term patient care.

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Also Known As: CA 27.29 Tumor Marker, Cancer Antigen 27.29 Test
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The Calcitonin Test measures levels of calcitonin, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate calcium. Elevated levels are often linked to medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or other thyroid disorders, while normal results help rule out disease. Doctors use this blood test to aid in early detection, monitor treatment effectiveness, and track recurrence in patients with thyroid cancer or suspected endocrine abnormalities.

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The CEA Test measures carcinoembryonic antigen levels in blood, a protein that may be elevated in certain cancers, especially colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, or ovarian cancer. It is not used alone for diagnosis but helps monitor cancer treatment, detect recurrence, and track disease progression. Elevated CEA can also occur in noncancerous conditions. Doctors use this test to support therapy decisions and provide insight into cancer management.

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Also Known As: Carcinoembryonic Antigen Test
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The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

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Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test
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The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

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Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 
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The DCP Test detects des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin, an abnormal form of prothrombin linked to hepatocellular carcinoma and other liver disorders. Elevated levels may reflect tumor activity, chronic liver disease, or cirrhosis. This test provides valuable information for assessing liver function, monitoring cancer progression, and evaluating systemic health in patients with hepatic disease.

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Also Known As: Des-Gamma-Carboxy-Prothrombin Test
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The Fecal Globin by Immunochemistry Test detects hidden (occult) blood in stool using antibodies that identify human globin protein. This test helps screen for colorectal cancer, polyps, ulcers, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Doctors order it when patients have anemia, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits. Results provide early detection of digestive tract bleeding, guiding further evaluation with colonoscopy or other diagnostic procedures.

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Also Known As: Fecal Immunochemical Test, Fecal Occult Blood Test, Stool Occult Blood Test, FIT Test, FOBT
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The Gastrin Test measures gastrin hormone levels in blood, which regulate stomach acid production. Elevated levels may indicate Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, gastrinoma, pernicious anemia, or chronic atrophic gastritis. Doctors order this test for patients with recurrent ulcers, abdominal pain, or unexplained diarrhea. Results help evaluate abnormal acid production, detect tumors, and guide treatment for gastrointestinal and metabolic conditions.

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Also Known As: Gastrinomas Test
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The hCG Total Quantitative Test measures human chorionic gonadotropin levels in blood to confirm pregnancy and monitor its progression. It provides exact hCG values, helping detect ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage risk, and abnormal growths like trophoblastic disease. Doctors also use it to track fertility treatments and evaluate certain cancers. This test offers precise insight into pregnancy health, reproductive function, and overall hormone balance.

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Also Known As: Beta hCG Test, Quantitative Chorionic Gonadotropin Test
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The Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test measures LDH enzyme levels in blood to assess tissue damage and overall health. Elevated LDH may indicate conditions such as liver disease, heart attack, anemia, infections, or certain cancers, while low levels are uncommon. Doctors use this test to help diagnose disease, monitor treatment effectiveness, and track cell damage. It provides valuable insight into metabolic activity and organ function.

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Also Known As: LD Test, LDH Test, Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase Test
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Cancer and Tumor Marker - Women's Screening Blood Tests

According to the CDC, cancer is the second leading cause of death of women in the United States, right behind heart disease. There are many preventative measures against cancer, including blood tests for each type of cancer that women face.

In this guide, we'll go over the different types of women's cancers, the signs and symptoms, and the tests you can get to screen for and monitor cancer in women. Read on to learn more about how to protect yourself or a loved one from different types of cancer in women.

What Are the Different Types of Cancer in Women?

According to the American Cancer Society, the most common cancers women face are:

  • Breast cancer
  • Colorectal cancer 
  • Lung cancer 
  • Cervical cancer
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Endometrial cancer 
  • Skin cancers 

There are different recommendations about when and how often you should get tested based on age groups and other risk factors.

What are the Benefits of Getting Tested for Cancer in Women?

Women between 40 and 55 should get screened for breast cancer with a mammogram every year. You should also check yourself for any lumps, skin discoloration, or unusual pain in your breasts every month. Women over 21 should get a regular Pap smear test done by their gynecologist every three years to test for some kinds of cervical cancers and HPV. 

These tests mentioned above, along with tumor marker blood tests for ovarian, endometrial, and other types of cervical cancers, can help you catch cancer in its early stages. Catching cancer early on can lead to a greater chance of survival. Talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms or risk factors for these kinds of cancer, and consider ordering a blood test to screen yourself if you think you may have cancer.

Causes and Risk Factors for Cancer in Women

While the causes for most types of cancer are unknown, there are a few risk factors that could increase your likelihood of getting cancer. Most types of women's cancers have a higher risk associated with age and genetic factors. Smoking and obesity are also risk factors for all kinds of cancer.

You are at an increased risk for cervical cancer if you have been exposed to or diagnosed with HPV. There is an HPV vaccine recommended for children and young adults to prevent HPV infection and cervical cancer.

Some types of ovarian and endometrial cancer have an increased risk if you have never had children or had your first child after 30. Hormone replacement therapy can affect the hormone levels in your body and may be another potential risk factor.

Signs and Symptoms of Cancer in Women

Some symptoms and warning signs of breast cancer include:

  • nipple discharge or changes
  • swollen breasts
  • lumps in breast, armpits, or collarbone
  • breast or nipple pain
  • skin discoloration or dimpling

The following signs can apply to ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, or endometrial cancer:

  • spotting between periods or smelly discharge
  • bloating or swelling in the belly
  • belly, back, or pelvic pain or discomfort
  • bowel changes such as diarrhea or constipation
  • frequent urge to pee, or unexplained weight loss without dieting

If you have any of these warning signs, you should consider getting yourself tested and talking to your doctor for more information.

One frequently asked question is, what are some signs and symptoms of cancer in women? Other kinds of cancers than those mentioned here often have similar symptoms for men and women. But women can often mistake serious abdominal pain for regular PMS symptoms or period cramps, so it's important to get that checked by a doctor if it persists beyond a few days.

How is Women's Cancer Diagnosed?

Along with regular mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smear tests during your regular check-ups, your doctor may order blood tests to determine if you have cancer. Different kinds of tests can screen and diagnose cancer and monitor the condition during cancer treatment.

What Does Each Blood Test For Cancer in Women Test For?

BRCA 1 and 2 tests are genetic tests using your DNA. This test looks for changes or mutations in the BRCA 1 and 2 genes that show an increased hereditary likelihood for breast and ovarian cancers. This is a screening test for patients who may have a higher risk of developing these kinds of cancer.

Cervical cancer tests use genetic markers to help determine your risk for developing cervical cancer. This test looks for extra copies of a certain gene associated with this type of cancer.

The CA 125 tumor marker test for ovarian cancer monitors patients who already have ovarian cancer. This test looks for the tumor marker CA 125 in the blood that is usually elevated in women with ovarian cancer. This marker can be high in women who are not sick or not present in women who have cancer, so it is best used as a monitoring test or in conjunction with other tests for a diagnosis.

The He4 ovarian cancer monitoring test is also used to monitor an existing diagnosis of ovarian cancer. This test looks for a different kind of tumor marker and tends to be a more accurate indicator than the CA 125 test for some kinds of ovarian cancer. Imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan might be necessary along with these tests for a doctor to confirm a diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

Benefits of Ordering Your Cancer Lab Tests Online

You can order blood tests online to help screen for women’s cancers. When you order your tests online with Ulta Lab Tests, you get fast, secure, and confidential results within 24-48 hours for most tests.

You won't need health insurance or a referral from a doctor to order the tests, and you can get them at an affordable price. Choose the tests you want to order and go to a lab near you for a phlebotomist to collect the samples.

Take Charge of Your Health

Kick cancer to the curb with blood tests for cancer in women from Ulta Lab Tests. You can take charge of your health by ordering the tests you need directly without waiting for a doctor's approval. Check out our list of blood tests for cancer, or search for a specific test to get started on your path to wellness today.