Cancer is a formidable adversary, affecting millions of lives worldwide each year. However, early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and survival. This is where cancer screening tests play a pivotal role. But what kind of cancer screening tests should you undergo? Since, the sooner you know, the better result you will get. Thus, cancer screening tests are very important and useful.
Here are the recommended cancer screening tests;
- Breast cancer screening test: this involves a combination of methods to detect breast cancer in its early stages. The primary breast cancer screening tests are;
- Mammograms; mammograms are recommended for women aged 40 and above. It involves taking X-ray images of the breast tissue. These X-ray images of the breast can detect tumors at an early stage when they are easier to treat.
- Biopsy: a crucial diagnostic tool used to determine whether a suspicious lump, mass, or abnormal tissue is benign (non-cancerous)
or malignant (cancerous). During this procedure, a small tissue sample is taken from the breast for further examination to determine the extent of any abnormalities.
- Breast ultrasound: a medical imaging technique that uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue. Often used in conjunction with mammography to evaluate breast abnormalities.
2. Prostate cancer screening test: this involves a combination of methods to detect prostate cancer in its early stages. The primary prostate cancer screening tests are;
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test: the PSA test measures the level of a specific protein called prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Elevated PSA levels can be an indicator of prostate cancer or an infection.
- Prostate biopsy: a crucial diagnostic tool used to determine whether a suspicious lump, mass, or abnormal tissue is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). During this procedure, a small tissue sample is taken from the prostate for further examination to determine the extent of any abnormalities.
- Prostate scan: an imaging procedure or test used to examine the prostate gland. Some common types of scans related to prostate are; transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), prostate MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), CT Scan.
3. Cervical Cancer Screening Test: This aims to detect early signs of cervical cancer or abnormalities in the cervix that can lead to cancer. In general, the recommended age for this screening starts at age 21. Below are the primary methods of cervical cancer screening:
- Pap smear: during a pap smear, a healthcare provider collects a small sample of cells from the cervix using a swab or brush. These cells are then examined under a microscope to detect any abnormal changes.
- HPV test: this test can detect the presence of HPV virus in cervical cells. It is often performed in conjunction with pap smear for women aged 30 to 65.
- Cervical Biopsy: if abnormal cells are detected during a pap smear or HPV test, a cervical biopsy may be recommended. During this procedure, a small tissue sample is taken from the cervix for further examination to determine the extent of any abnormalities.
4. Childhood Cancer Screening: this defers significantly from adult cancer screening. Unlike certain adult cancers for which there are established screening protocols, there are no routine screening tests for childhood cancer. Some important points to understand about childhood cancer screening are:
- There are no specific screening tests for childhood cancers that are recommended for children
- Childhood cancers are often detected based on signs and symptoms, which can vary depending on the type of cancer.
- A family history of certain cancers may increase a child’s risk of developing cancer.
- Research in pediatric oncology is ongoing and advances in understanding childhood cancers and developing targeted therapies are continually improving the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.
5. Lung cancer screening test: this is typically recommended for individuals at high risk of developing lung cancer particularly those with a significant history of smoking. The primary screening test used for lung cancer is a low-dose CT scan of the chest. It is typically recommended for individuals aged 50 to 80 who have a significant history of smoking or who have quit smoking within the past 15 years.
6. Colorectal cancer screening test: helps to identify precancerous growth and early-stage cancers of the colon and rectum when they are most treatable. Below are some common colorectal cancer screening tests
- Colonoscopy: during this procedure, a flexible, thin tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum and advanced through the entire colon. This allows the doctor to visualize the lining of the colon, identify and remove polyps and detect early-stage cancers. Typically recommended for individuals at age 50 and above.
- Stool DNA test: this test analyzes DNA markers and look for blood in the stool. They can detect both cancer and precancerous polyps.
7. Liver cancer screening test: this aims to detect liver cancer at an early stage when treatment options may be more effective. However, unlike some other cancers, there is no universally recommended screening test for liver cancer. Liver cancer screening is typically reserved for individuals who are at a higher risk due to specific risk factors. These tests include:
- Ultrasound: abdominal ultrasound can be used to check the liver for tumors. It is non invasive and does not involve radiation.
- Alpha-fetoprotein (ATP) Blood test; AFP is a protein produced by some liver cancer cells. Elevated AFP levels may indicate the presence of liver cancer, but it is not a definitive test on its own.
- Liver imaging: CT scans or MRI scans of the liver can provide detailed images and help identify liver tumors.
Cancer screening tests are a vital tool in the fight against cancer. The type of screening you need depends on different factors. Its essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate regimen for you. Remember, early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, making cancer screening a crucial aspect of overall health and wellbeing.
