Encourage a Screening How to Encourage a Cancer Screening Recommended Screenings Common Barriers By Robyn Correll, MPH Robyn Correll, MPH LinkedIn Twitter Robyn Correll, MPH holds a master of public health degree and has over a decade of experience working in the prevention of infectious diseases. Learn about our editorial process Updated on February 19, 2021 Medically reviewed Verywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals. These medical reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Doru Paul, MD Medically reviewed by Doru Paul, MD Doru Paul, MD, is triple board-certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. He is an associate professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College and attending physician in the Department of Hematology and Oncology at the New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center. Learn about our Medical Expert Board Our Conversation Coach Can Help Spotting cancer early through recommended cancer screenings can make a huge difference in treatment options and outcomes—but not everyone is eager to get screened. Some might not want to spend the time or money, while others might be afraid of the experience or what it could reveal. If you have a loved one who is reluctant to get screened for cancer, talking with them about it can be tough. You might need to broach the topic multiple times or in a few different ways before you make any headway, and even then, your loved one might still be hesitant to get screened. Our Conversation Coach will walk you through a simulated discussion with your loved one so you can avoid conversation pitfalls and pick up some talking points you can use to respond to common fears or concerns. Note: The conversation below addresses screening for lung cancer, but can be applied to other types of cancer screenings as needed.