Cancer Screening : What , When , How?

Cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases affecting mankind. In India alone, over 7 lakh people are afflicted with cancer every year. Cancer comes in different varieties, with lung cancer in males and breast cancer in females making up a majority of the incidences in our nation.

The aim of cancer screening blood tests and other kinds of imaging tests is to detect the tumorous growth in its initial stages, before the onset of any major symptom. An effective screening test results in a considerable reduction in the mortality rate due to cancer. Another benefit of cancer screening is that it is useful in reducing the number of people who develop the disease.

Cancer Screening Tests

1. Mammography

This is a type of scanning test that uses X-rays to show tumors or abnormal growths in the breast, which can be seen in the images, or mammograms.

2. Colonoscopy and Sigmoidoscopy

These tests help detect colorectal cancer in their earlier stages by finding the abnormal colon growths, or polyps before they assume cancerous proportions. The doctor uses a device called a colonoscope, or sigmoidoscope, which is a flexible, lighted tube, to check the colon for polyps and cancer.

3. Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT)

This also works on the principle of using X-rays to make detailed images of the lungs. A yearly lung cancer screening is recommended for those who have a history of, or are present, smoking and are between 55 to 80 years old. Of course, there are certain risks, such as the possibility of a false-positive result and complications due to repeated exposure to radiation. But the advantages of being cautious generally outweigh the risks.

4. CA-125 Test

This is a blood test that is generally done along with ultrasound, to detect any signs of ovarian cancer in women.

5. Human papillomavirus (HPV) Testing

These tests may be carried out together or individually, for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. The abnormal cells can be treated before they advance into the cancerous stage.

6. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

PSA is a substance that is found at elevated levels in men who are affected with prostate cancer. This blood test measures the level of PSA to indicate any signs of this condition.

7. Dermoscopy

In this test, a handheld device is used by the doctor to examine the pigmentation patterns of skin lesions to check for signs of melanoma, or skin cancer.

8. General health screening and checkup

A complete physical examination to check for lumps or other abnormalities, especially in the nose, mouth, throat and teeth is recommended to screen for head and neck cancers.

When should we start testing for cancer?

There are many factors that need to be examined in order to determine an effective cancer screening timeline, such as food habits, type of lifestyle and profession etc. Though there is no specific point in a person’s life that can be pointed out with absolute certainty for commencing screening, in general, it is advisable to get yourself periodically checked starting in your twenties and up to the age of 65-80.

Cancer Test in Mumbai

S.L. Raheja is a state-of-the-art multispecialty hospital in Mumbai with special expertise in the field of oncology. The cancer test costs are affordable, and, in any case, the monetary costs are worth the trouble saved later on.