If a simple test existed that could save your life, wouldn't you want to know about it? Dr. Manny passes on vital information on recent breakthroughs in testing for cancer and the vaccine that can potentially save the lives of thousands of women.

Digital Mammogram

Breast cancer is the number one cancer diagnosed in women, killing about 40,000 women in this country every year. The digital mammogram -- as opposed to the older, film mammogram -- is a new technology that doctors are using to make a better diagnosis. Images are displayed immediately on a computer so there's no wait for film to be developed. On the screen, images can be enhanced, magnified and manipulated for further evaluation, enabling women to get any necessary follow-up tests and results right away. Digital is also better for women with dense breasts, a group that is at higher risk for cancer. "All women over 40 should get an annual mammogram," emphasizes Dr. Manny.

HPV Vaccination

Cervical cancer is still a major problem for women in this country; about 4,000 American women die of it every year. Seventy percent of the cancer cases are caused by certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted disease. The development of a vaccination called Gardasil has the potential for guarding women against HPV. "It attacks this virus specifically and it prevents women from developing cervical cancer," says Dr. Manny. The vaccination, comprised of three shots, is recommended for girls as young as 11.

Lung CAT Screen

Lung cancer is the leading killer for both men and women when it comes to cancer in America. CAT scans -- specialized x-rays -- are now being used to screen patients who are at risk for lung cancer. CAT scans aren't new, but using them to screen for lung cancer is a new protocol. They can pick up early lesions of the disease and you no longer have to wait for symptoms to get tested. "This is a test that can save your life," says Dr. Manny. "The best thing you can do to prevent the disease, of course, is stop smoking. The first minute you put that cigarette down, you're saving your life."

Dr. Manny is the author of The Checklist: What You and Your Family Need to Know to Prevent Disease and Live a Long, Healthy Life.