What is Cancer? Why Should We Screen for It?

Cancer is a complex disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. While it remains a significant health challenge, advancements in early detection, innovative treatments, and our understanding of cancer risk factors have led to improved outcomes. Today, more people than ever are surviving cancer, thanks to ongoing research and medical breakthroughs.

Types of Cancer

Cancer can develop in almost any body part. There are two main types: blood cancers (like leukemia) and solid tumors (like breast or lung cancer). Cancers vary widely in how they grow, spread, and respond to treatment. Some require surgery, while others respond better to chemotherapy or other therapies. Often, a combination of treatments is used.

The Importance of Early Detection: Cancer Screening

Early detection is significant in the battle against cancer. Cancer screening includes tests and strategies to look for cancer in individuals who have no symptoms.

Cancer screening includes tests to distinguish cancer in individuals without indications, pointing to discovering it early when treatment is regularly more successful. Whereas early discovery can spare lives, screening might be superior. Tests may have dangers like inconvenience or untrue positives, requiring more tests.

Sometimes, cancer is missed, and sometimes, safe discoveries cause superfluous stress. Weighing these components with your specialist is significant when considering screening.

Why is Screening Important?

Cancer screening recognizes potential cancer early, permitting treatment before it spreads, expanding the chances of effective treatment.

Moreover, cancer screening proposals shift based on age, sex, and hazard variables. Whereas customary checkups beginning at age 20 can recognize hazard components like family history, most cancer screenings start in the 40s. In any case, people with pre-cancerous conditions or a solid family history of cancer may require prior screening.

Curious about our cancer screening services? Explore our page to learn more about the benefits and process.

Common Cancer Screenings and Their Effectiveness

Cancer screening involves tests to detect cancer early before symptoms appear. Early detection often increases the chances of successful treatment. While some screening tests have proven effective in reducing cancer-related deaths, others have limited value or are still under investigation.

Proven Effective

  • Breast cancer screening: Mammography has been shown to reduce breast cancer deaths, especially in women aged 50-69.
  • Cervical cancer screening: HPV tests and Pap smears prevent cervical cancer by detecting abnormal cells early.
  • Colorectal cancer screening: Colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and stool tests can find and remove precancerous polyps, reducing colorectal cancer risk.
  • Lung cancer screening: Low-dose CT scans can reduce lung cancer deaths in heavy smokers aged 50-80.

Limited Effectiveness or Under Investigation

  • Liver cancer screening: Alpha-fetoprotein tests and liver ultrasounds are used in high-risk individuals, but their effectiveness is limited.
  • Breast MRI: Mainly used for women with high genetic risk due to BRCA gene mutations.
  • Ovarian cancer screening: CA-125 tests and transvaginal ultrasounds have limited effectiveness in early detection.
  • Prostate cancer screening: PSA tests are no longer routinely recommended due to overdiagnosis and potential harm.
  • Skin exams: While recommended for high-risk individuals, their effectiveness in reducing skin cancer deaths is uncertain.
  • Multi-cancer early detection tests: These are still under development and research.

 

It’s crucial to discuss screening options with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach based on your age, family history, and overall health.

Who Should Get Screened?

Screening recommendations vary based on age, gender, and risk factors. It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate screening schedule for you. 

Risk Factors for Cancer

While not everyone will develop cancer, certain factors can increase your risk. These include:

  • Age
  • Tobacco use
  • Sun exposure
  • Obesity
  • Family history of cancer
  • Certain infections

Early detection is key. Contact Dr. Maryam Khan for a personalized screening plan.

Reducing Your Cancer Risk

While not all cancers can be anticipated, keeping up a solid weight, eating an adjusted count of calories rich in natural products and vegetables, working out routinely, maintaining a strategic distance from tobacco and over-the-top liquor, and securing your skin from the sun can altogether decrease your cancer risk.

 

Early discovery is key to fruitful cancer treatment. Conversation with your specialist about prescribed cancer screenings for you. By taking proactive steps to avoid and distinguish cancer early, you can move forward your chances of a long and sound life.

Conclusion

Cancer is a formidable infection, but early detection through customary screenings essentially improves the chances of effective treatment. Whereas not all cancers can be avoided, receiving a sound way of life can altogether diminish your risk.

Furthermore, it’s vital to counsel with your healthcare supplier to decide the most suitable screening plan and preventive measures for you. By prioritizing your well-being and understanding the significance of early discovery, you’re taking proactive steps toward a more beneficial future. 

Preventive screening saves lives. Don’t delay, schedule your screening today with Dr Maryam Khan!