CANCER SCREENING

Cancer Awareness and Prevention

Individuals and families can reduce their risk of developing cancer by adopting healthy lifestyle habits and participating in regular screening programs. These programs focus on promoting healthy behaviors, such as maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco and alcohol consumption, and getting recommended cancer screenings.

One of the most effective ways to prevent cancer is through early detection. Many cancers can be detected early through screening tests, such as mammograms for breast cancer, colonoscopies for colon cancer, and Pap tests for cervical cancer. These tests can help detect cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable.

In addition to regular screenings, cancer prevention programs may also focus on educating individuals about healthy lifestyle habits.

We encourage healthy eating habits, such as consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in processed foods and red meat. We recommend individuals to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and avoid exposure to harmful substances like tobacco smoke and excessive UV radiation.

Healthy lifestyle and regular screenings, can help individuals reduce their risk of developing cancer and improve their chances of detecting cancer at an early, that significantly increases treatment possibilities.

Cancer screening guidelines vary depending on the type of cancer and various other factors such as age, family history, and overall health. The following are some general guidelines for cancer screening for men and women:

Breast Cancer

Women aged 40 and above should have a mammogram every 1-2 years to screen for breast cancer.
Women who are at high risk of breast cancer may need to start screening earlier and have additional tests such as breast MRI.

Cervical Cancer

Women aged 21-29 should have a Pap test every 3 years to screen for cervical cancer.
Women aged 30-65 should have a Pap test and HPV test every 5 years or a Pap test alone every 3 years.

Colorectal Cancer

Men and women aged 50 and above should have a colonoscopy every 10 years to screen for colorectal cancer.
Other options for screening include stool tests (fecal immunochemical test or FIT) every year or a flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years.

Prostate Cancer

Men aged 50 and above should discuss prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider.
Men at high risk of prostate cancer (such as African Americans or those with a family history) may need to start screening earlier.

Lung Cancer

Adults aged 55-80 who have a history of heavy smoking (30 pack-years or more) or who currently smoke should have a low-dose CT scan every year to screen for lung cancer.

Skin Cancer

Adults should have a skin exam every year to screen for skin cancer.
Individuals should also perform self-exams regularly and report any suspicious moles or spots to their healthcare provider.

It is important to note that these guidelines are general and may vary depending on an individual's specific health situation. It is recommended that individuals consult our specialists to determine the appropriate cancer screening schedule for them.