Understanding the Importance of Cancer Screening
Early detection of cancer can be an important factor in its treatment. Research has shown a correlation between how early a cancer is detected and how easily it can be treated. Generally speaking, if caught earlier, it is less likely that a cancer would have spread or metastasized to other areas of the body.
The recommended way to do that is with cancer screening, but screening guidelines can be confusing and do not apply to all types of cancer. As with any health matter, consult with your primary physician and if you have any concerns, address them promptly.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) provides screening guidelines that reflect the most up to date recommendations. The three cancers that are most likely to be detected with regular screenings are breast cancer, cervical cancer, and colorectal cancer. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) concur with these recommendations, and both organizations also identify that lung cancer can be screened for with people who fall into the higher risk category of smokers over age 55 in good overall health.
Breast Cancer Screening:
The mammogram, an x-ray of the breast, is the most common form of breast cancer screening using imaging. MRIs are also used to screen for breast cancer, but generally not for women who fall in the average risk category. Additionally, physicians or nurses provide regular hands on clinical breast exams to detect lumps or other changes in breast tissue. Women, too, are encouraged to learn how to self-examine their breasts for any changes.
As for when or how often to screen for breast cancer, there is some range of opinion. The ACS advocates for any woman over the age of 40 to have access to annual mammograms, if they wish to. The CDC, on the other hand, adheres to the guidelines of the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force and believes that women aged 40-49 should consult with their physician to determine when or if a mammogram is recommended. As women age into their 50s, the growing consensus is that mammograms can be performed every other year.
Cervical Cancer Screening:
There is a better consensus amongst the ACS and CDC regarding screening for cervical cancer. Both recommend that women in their 20s should get a Pap test every three years. The Pap test, also called a Pap smear, looks for cellular changes within the cervix, and can be performed right in your doctor’s office.
Women between the ages of 30-65 are recommended to continue getting the Pap test every three years. Age 30 is when you begin to get what is called an HPV test as well. The HPV test looks for the human papillomavirus, which can cause cell changes that lead to cervical cancer. If both tests are performed (known as a “co-test”) and come back negative, doctors often recommend the testing be performed only every five years moving forward. It is not uncommon for cervical cancer screening to be eliminated for women over age 65.
Colorectal Cancer:
The standard age to start screening for colorectal cancer is at the age of 50 for both men and women. The most common method for screening for colorectal cancer is the colonoscopy. While annual screening is not required, a patient and doctor, based on overall health and family history, will collaborate to determine at what interval the screenings should occur. They should continue through age 75, and then only on an as needed basis, as determined by your health care provider.
And it is important to note that, as with breast cancer screening, the ACS takes a more aggressive approach to testing, recommending colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45 for those at average risk, and earlier for those at higher risk for getting the disease.
As with any health procedure, there are risks to these screenings. Early detection of cancer is about balancing that risk of screening with the overall benefit of finding cancer in its early stages before spread. “While there are some risks to these screenings, as an oncologist, I cannot stress enough the importance of early detection for cancer and using the tools available to you, as a patient, to be an active participant in your care,” says Srilata Gundala, MD, Hematologist-Oncologist, and owner and operator of Hope & Healing Cancer Services. “No patient I have ever treated has regretted getting a screening that found their cancer in its early stages.”
Preventative care, including recommended cancer screening, proper nutrition, and leading a healthy lifestyle are all important factors in ensuring that even if a cancer diagnosis is experienced, your outcome will be a favorable one.
Written By: Sheila Quirke, MSW
Reviewed By: Srilata Gundala, MD
