Fear must be overcome. Many people feel hesitant about getting a screening test done because they fear the potential results. However, it's important to be aware of any diseases present in our bodies. Ignoring a disease can lead to unwanted consequences in the long run.
It's important to conquer our fears and feel comfortable taking a screening test. A negative result will bring peace of mind, but if the result is positive, it's important to start treatment as soon as possible. Getting the right treatment at the right time can help you become healthy and disease-free again.
Early detection of cancer is a key to successful treatment. This is why screening tests are now an essential part of cancer healthcare. With these tests, cancerous cells can be detected at an early stage, before they have a chance to spread. This means that treatment can be initiated early, giving patients a much better chance of beating the disease.
Screening test does not diagnose cancer; it detects the presence of cancerous cells in the body.
So if you want to give yourself the best possible chance of fighting cancer, make sure you get screened regularly.
Advantages of screening test:
- Cancer screening detects cancer early, improving treatment outcomes.
- The earlier cancer is detected, the better the chances of survival.
- Early detection means reducing treatment costs and chemical/light therapy use.
- Early detection of cancer allows for identifying the problem before symptoms manifest.
Who should be screened for?
It is generally recommended to avoid regular screening tests before the age of 40. However, if you have any potential risk factors, a family history of cancer, or have been diagnosed with a pre-cancerous condition, it is advisable to undergo screening tests from the age of 20 onwards. Risk factors can raise the likelihood of developing cancer.
What are the common cancer screening tests?
- Physical examination
A healthcare provider may conduct a physical examination to check for any bodily changes, such as lumps. They may also inquire about your lifestyle, health, risk factors, and family history.
- Laboratory tests
Laboratory tests may include a PAP smear to check for signs of cancer through a blood test.
- Imaging tests
Imaging tests such as mammograms are used to capture images of the inside of the body.
- Genetic tests for cancer
A genetic test is usually done when someone in your family has a history of cancer.
Now, the screening test is widely used to detect-
- Breast Cancer
Mammograms are the most effective way to detect breast cancer at an early stage when it is easier to treat. Sometimes, oncologists may recommend breast magnetic resonance imaging to detect possible genetic factors that may cause breast cancer. It is recommended that people aged 40-49 should have mammograms once a year, and people aged 50-74 should have mammograms once every two years.
- Prostate cancer
It is recommended that individuals aged 45 years and above undergo a blood test to check for prostate cancer.
- Cervical cancer
At the age of 21, it is recommended that individuals undergo a Pap smear or HPV test to screen for cervical cancer.
- Lung cancer
Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is a medical imaging technique that is commonly used for the diagnosis and screening of lung cancer.
- Colorectal cancer
It is recommended that individuals who are 45 years old or older undergo regular screening for colorectal cancer.
Do not let fear stop you from getting a screening test. A positive result can be scary, but early detection can save lives.
References:
- https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/screening/patient-screening-overview-pdq#:~:text=Screening%20tests%20can%20help%20find,may%20have%20grown%20and%20spread.
- https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/find-cancer-early/screening-for-cancer/benefits-and-limitations-of-regular-cancer-screening
- https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-symptoms/spot-cancer-early/screening/what-is-cancer-screening
- https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/science-health-public-trust/perspectives/putting-cancer-screening-perspective
- https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/screening/screening-tests
- https://www.pfizer.com/news/articles/cancer_screenings_understanding_the_pros_and_cons
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/24118-cancer-screening
