Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and early detection through cancer screenings can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Cancer screenings are tests that are performed on individuals who do not have any symptoms of cancer, but may be at an increased risk due to certain factors such as age, family history, or lifestyle choices. These tests can help identify cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable.
One of the most well-known cancer screenings is the mammogram, which is used to detect breast cancer in women. Other common cancer screenings include colonoscopies for colon cancer, PSA tests for prostate cancer, a low-dose CT scan for lung cancer and Pap tests for cervical cancer.
If an abnormal result is found from a screening, further testing can be done to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.
At Clearview Cancer Institute, routine screenings are recommended.
Cervical cancer screening
Pap smear
Women
Starting at 25
After age 25, follow your gynecologist’s recommendations on screening
Breast cancer screening
Mammogram
Women
Starting at 40, annual mammograms recommended, follow your physician’s recommendations on follow up screening
Colon cancer screenings
Colonoscopy
Men and women
Starting at 45, follow your physician’s recommendations on follow up screening
Prostate cancer screening
Men
Starting at 55, annual screenings recommended, follow your physician’s recommendations on follow up screening
Lung cancer screening
Low Dose CT Scan
Men and Women, Smokers or Former Smokers
You may qualify for the Lung Cancer Screening program at Clearview Cancer Institute, if you meet the following criteria:
Be 50-80 years old
Be a current smoker with a 20-pack year smoking history
Have smoked within the past 15 years
Asymptomatic
Annual screenings recommended, follow your physician’s recommendations on follow up screening
There are exceptions to these guidelines if you have a family history of cancer or certain genetic factors. Always consult your doctor about when you should get screened according to your age and risk factors.
In conclusion, cancer screenings are an important tool in the fight against cancer. They can detect cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable, and greatly improve the chances of successful treatment. Don’t miss your chance to catch cancer early by scheduling regular cancer screenings with your healthcare provider.