You Should Know These 10 Cancer Screenings in Case You’re at Risk


We all know that cancer is a serious problem and one of the leading causes of sickness and death. It is a frightening disease, and one of the worst aspects is that it could be growing inside of your body without you even knowing about it. Medical advancements have helped to make it possible to screen for different types of cancer. Here are 10 that you will want to know about.

  1. Lung Cancer – Low-Dose Helical CT Scan

scannn

Another name for this cancer screening is spiral CT. The screening will utilize X-rays in order to provide multiple image scans of the chest. The National Lung Screening Trials found that this screening can lower the risk of dying by lung cancer.

  1. Breast Cancer – Screening Mammogram

mm

This is a type of X-ray that will help to find breast tumors. Mammograms are typically digital today, which can provide accurate images. 3D mammography is a relatively new method that can be used in screening, as well.

  1. Liver Cancer – Alpha-Fetoprotein Blood Test

aafp

This is a test that is only used for those patients who are at high risk. Patients who are considered high risk may have this screening, and the doctor might also order imaging.

  1. Cervical Cancer – Pap Smear

pap

This is a common test that has been around for some time. The screening will use sample cells to look for changes in the cervix and to test for cervical cancer. These screenings are typically provided before there are other symptoms that might indicate cervical cancer.

  1. Colon Cancer – Colonoscopy

cann

Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancers and it needs to be taken seriously. People should have their first screening when they are 50 and then one screening every 10 years.

  1. Colon Cancer – Stool Tests

stool_

One of the other methods that can be used to detect colon cancer is testing stool. The doctor may request a stool sample for those who are considered at risk.

  1. Bladder Cancer – Cystoscopy and Urine Cytology

urinol

There are not any routine tests for this type of cancer, but there are other screenings – cystoscopy and urine cytology – that can help to detect its presence.

  1. Prostate Cancer – PSA Test

pSA

A PSA blood test will look for high levels of prostate-specific antigen in the body as a means to determine whether the patient has cancer.

  1. Ovarian Cancer – CA-125 Test

Ovarian Cancer

This is a blood test that measures the proteinCA-125. If the level of the protein is too high, it could be an indicator of ovarian cancer. Doctors will then do further tests, such as a transvaginal ultrasound if needed.

  1. Skin Cancer – Skin Exam

skin1

A skin exam is important to find potential signs of skin cancer. Home tests are possible by looking at changes in blemishes, freckles, and moles. However, doctors should provide a skin exam during checkups.

These are just some of the screenings that are available. Even those who may feel that they are in decent health should make it a point to have cancer screenings. The sooner the cancer is detected the sooner a proper treatment plan can be developed and initiated.


-–Advertisement–-