All you need to know about Cancer Screening
A cancer screening is a medical test that is used to detect cancer in people who do not have any symptoms. It is important to have regular cancer screenings because they can help detect cancer early when it is most treatable. Early detection can also help reduce the risk of death from cancer.
Types of Cancer Screening
There are different types of cancer screening tests, for different types of Cancer. The most common types include:
- Pap test: Pap test, also known as a Pap Smear, is a screening test for Cervical Cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope to look for abnormal changes. The test can also detect infections and highlight other issues.
- HPV test: HPV test is also a type of cancer screening for Cervical Cancer. It is a type of Pap test that looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a virus that can cause changes in the cells of the cervix, leading to Cervical Cancer. The HPV test looks for the presence of the virus in cervical cells, as well as any changes in the cells that could be an early sign of cancer. Depending on the results of the test, further testing or follow-up may be recommended.
- Mammogram: A mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts used to detect Breast Cancer. It is a screening test used to detect early signs of cancer before it can be felt during a physical exam. Mammograms can help detect cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable.
- Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy is a type of cancer screening that looks for signs of cancer in the large intestine and rectum. It is usually done with a flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope that is inserted into the rectum. During the procedure, the doctor can look for polyps, which are growths that may become cancerous if not removed.
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: The Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a cancer screening test used to detect prostate cancer. It measures the level of a particular protein, called prostate-specific antigen, in the blood. Elevated levels of PSA may indicate the presence of Prostate Cancer, but they may also be caused by a number of other conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis. The PSA test is not a diagnostic test, meaning it cannot definitively diagnose Prostate Cancer. It is often used in conjunction with other tests, such as a biopsy, to help make a diagnosis.
Sometimes, a combination of screenings can also be recommended.
Advantages of Cancer Screening
The main advantages of cancer screening include:
Early Detection: One of the main benefits of cancer screening is that it can detect cancer in its early stages. This means that it can be diagnosed and treated before it spreads to other parts of the body, potentially leading to improved outcomes for patients.
Improved Quality of Life: Cancer screening can improve the quality of life for patients, as it can detect cancer before it becomes more difficult to treat. Early diagnosis and treatment can mean more options for treatment and less pain for the patient.
Reduced Mortality Rates: Cancer screening can also reduce mortality rates from cancer. This is because it can detect cancer in its early stages and allow for treatment before it becomes more advanced and difficult to treat.
Cost-effective: Early detection of cancer through screening can also be cost-effective because early detection can mean less expensive treatments, as well as fewer complications and side effects.
Cancer Screening can also help identify people at increased risk for developing certain types of cancer, so doctors can develop personalised prevention strategies to reduce their risk.
Overall, cancer screening is an effective method to detect cancer early and improve patient outcomes but is imperative for individuals to priorly discuss the benefits and risks of it with an expert doctor.
At CBCC Cancer Care, we have a specialised team of cancer experts. If you have any queries or concerns related to cancer, you can consult with our experts now.
For any concerns or queries, connect with our experts now.
