Cancer is considered to be one of the major causes of death and mortality worldwide but with early detection through regular cancer screening, cancer treatment can be more effective and significantly more successful. While many types of cancers develop silently without any apparent symptoms in its early stages, screening tests can detect abnormalities even before noticeable signs appear. This blog explores how early cancer screening works and how it can improve survival rates through early detection.
Difference between cancer screening and diagnosis
Screening of cancer is not the same as cancer diagnosis. While screening for cancer is done in asymptomatic people, diagnosis is meant for ascertaining cancer in patients showing signs and symptoms. Cancer screening is only a preventive measure whereas diagnosis helps in finding the exact cause of symptoms to guide in appropriate treatment modality. There are several cancer screening tests to detect various types of cancer, including:
• Mammograms (Breast)
• Pap smear/HPV test (Cervical)
• Colonoscopy (Colorectal)
• PSA blood tests (Prostate)
• Low-dose CT scans (Lungs)
Types of common cancer screening tests
Certain types of cancers (e.g. breast, cervical, prostate, etc. ) can be detected early if regular cancer screening is done once an individual attains high-risk age for that particular cancer. Here, we have briefly outlined the major screening tests available for cancer screening.
1. Mammograms for breast cancer screening: This test is recommended for women who are 40 years and above. It is advisable to undergo this screening test every two years. Additionally, you may require breast MRI scan if the risk of breast cancer is higher.
2. PAP smear/HPV test for cervical cancer screening: Ideally, cervical cancer screening should begin at the age of 21 years. Cervical cancer screening tests can detect precancerous cells (PAP smear) and high-risk strains of HPV (human papillomavirus) through HPV test.
3. Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screening: Screening for colorectal cancer should begin at age 45 and should be done every 10 years. Colonoscopy detects non-cancerous polyps which have the potential to become cancerous if not removed on time.
4. PSA blood tests for prostate cancer screening: Men above 55 years are recommended to undergo PSA blood tests which can help in early detection of prostate cancer. This test measures the level of a protein produced by the prostate gland. Higher levels of this protein may mean prostate cancer although it could mean other prostate-associated problems as well.
5. Low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening: If you are between 50 and 80 years and have a smoking history, it is recommended to undergo this test for lung cancer screening.
Benefits of regular cancer screening
The benefits of undergoing regular cancer screening tests cannot be overlooked. Some of these are:
• Early treatment: The chances of successful treatment are higher with regular cancer screening. Once detected, cancer can be treated before it spreads.
• Reduces complications: Regular screening facilitates faster treatment of cancer, often with less aggressive treatments, thereby reducing complications.
• Improves survival rates: With regular cancer screenings, mortality rates can be considerably reduced, leading to better quality of life of patients.
• Lower costs: When cancer is treated at the early stages, it is less expensive. The overall cost savings in long-term healthcare is comparatively less.
It is important to spread awareness about early cancer screening tests so that people prioritize their health. So far, the stigma around cancer inhibits individuals from undergoing these screening tests. It is important to break these barriers by making these screening tests easily accessible to people. It is also vital to understand that early screening can identify cancer in the initial stages so that treatment options become more effective, less invasive, and more affordable. Regular screening and early detection does not just save lives – it empowers people to live healthier and longer lives!