The invention relates to a method for screening and/or detecting and/or monitoring a cancer in an individual, said method comprising determining a first parameter represented by the concentration of TIMP-1 in at least one excreta, e.g. saliva, from the individual. The invention provides a method that without the need to use a blood sample is suitable for facilitating the early diagnosis of a cancer, monitoring the recurrence of a cancer, and/or monitoring the status of a cancer or the effect of cancer treatment in an individual.