Cancer is one of the most debilitating and chronic conditions affecting millions worldwide. Majority of people have around 20% lifetime risk for cancer. As such, you might have a higher risk due to your family history, occupation, or lifestyle habits. So, how do you approach the monster? Cancer screening Deerfield Beach can help identify the earliest signs of cancer for treatment at its earliest stage. Screening means examining your body for cancer before you have the symptoms. So which cancer screening tests should you consider? Read on for recommended cancer screening tests.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Pap smear and human papillomavirus (HPV) tests are effective cervical cancer screening tests. They detect abnormal cells around your cervix, allowing for treatment before the cells can become cancerous. Medical experts recommend this cancer screening start at 21 years and until 65 years. Women aged 21-29 should undertake pap smear tests every three years, and those above 30 do so every five years.
Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women. It mostly affects women 40 years and older. Scientific studies reveal that mammogram screening is an effective way of detecting breast cancer early when it is easier to treat. Mammograms can find breast cancer tumors before they cause symptoms or are detected during a breast examination. Healthcare providers recommend women between 40-49 years have annual mammograms, and those aged 50-74 have the screening every two years, added Dr. Philippe Smith, a devoted family practitioner, graduated with distinction in Cell and Molecular Biology from Concordia University and earned his Medical Doctorate from the University of Montreal.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate cancer is a common condition that affects men over 45 years and above. Hence, men aged 45 and above should undertake annual digital rectal examinations. There is a blood screening test for prostate cancer. Therefore, if you are 45 years and above, consult your doctor about a prostate-specific antigen blood test. This is especially true if you are African American or have a family history of prostate cancer.
Lung Cancer Screening
According to statistics, lung cancer is the top cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Some risk factors, such as smoking or being 55 years and above, increase your risk of lung cancer. Lung cancer screening is highly recommended for people at risk of lung cancer. The common lung cancer screening test is low-dose computed tomography (LDCT).
Colorectal Cancer Screening
You should consider having regular colorectal cancer screening tests if you are 45 and older. These tests include; colonoscopy, fecal tests, virtual colonoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy. However, doctors might recommend early screening tests for those at an increased risk of colorectal cancer. These include a family history of colorectal cancer, suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, or other diseases such as familial adenomatous polyposis and Lynch syndrome.
Ultimately, these are some of the common cancer screenings you should consider. Your doctor might also recommend other screening tests, such as skin, liver, or ovarian cancer, for high-risk individuals. Diagnosing cancer in its earliest stage often offers you the best chance of a cure. Considering this, speak with your doctor about the types of cancer screening that might be appropriate for you based on your risk factors. If you are diagnosed with cancer, the doctor will work to determine the stage of your cancer and the best treatment options.
