Let's be aware of cancer screening!

When we hear the word "cancer," many of us feel a little scared and nervous, right? That's normal. But did you know that there are ways to detect some types of cancer at a very early stage, before you even start to feel any symptoms? That's what we call cancer screening . This is like finding the disease before it even starts to haunt your body and controlling it before it gets bigger.

Simply put, what is Cancer Screening?

Cancer screening is a special test that checks your body for signs of cancer before you have any symptoms. These tests have two main purposes.

1. Detecting cancer at an early stage: If cancer can be caught at a very early stage, before it has spread, it is much easier to treat. Also, the chances of a complete cure are much higher.

2. Preventing cancer: Sometimes these tests can find areas that are likely to become cancerous, called "precancerous cells." If they are found, those cells can be removed before they become cancerous, preventing cancer from developing.

Doctors usually recommend that most people start getting these types of cancer screenings in their 40s. However, if you have a higher risk of developing cancer (for example, if someone in your family has had cancer), you may need to start these screenings earlier. It's best to talk to your doctor about this.

Is it necessary to do these tests? What are the advantages and disadvantages?

This is a very important issue. Cancer screenings are only recommended when there is scientific evidence that the benefits of screening far outweigh the possible small risks .

• The main benefit: Early detection of cancer. This is the best way to save a life from cancer. If it is detected early, treatment is easier and more effective, and you can live a healthier life for longer.
• Disadvantages (these are very rare): Sometimes the test reports can be wrong. That means they can report that there is no cancer, or that there is nothing. But these are very rare. Another thing is overdiagnosis . That means that a test may pick up a small change that will probably not harm you for the rest of your life, and then treat it unnecessarily or do more tests.

But remember, when compared to the loss of life from cancer, these risks are very small. That's why cancer screening is recommended all over the world.

What are the main recommended cancer tests?

There are three main types of cancer screenings that are recommended for people at average risk, meaning those without a family history. These have saved thousands of lives.

1. Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women, but it can also be cured if detected early.

• Test: The main test for this is a mammogram . This is a special X-ray of the breasts.
• When should you start?: Usually after age 40 .
• How often?: It is recommended to do it every two years.
• If you are at higher risk: If someone in your family has had breast cancer, you may be at higher risk. In such cases, your doctor may recommend a test such as a breast MRI in addition to a mammogram, or to have the test done two years earlier.

2. Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer is a cancer that can be prevented and completely cured if detected early.

• Tests: There are two types of tests for this.
• Pap smear: A small sample of cells from the cervix is ​​taken and examined under a microscope to check for cancerous cells or abnormal cells that may become cancerous.
• HPV test: This tests for the presence of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the main cause of cervical cancer.
• Recommendations by age:
• Ages 21-29: Get a Pap smear every 3 years .
• Ages 30-65: There are several options available to you. You can talk to your doctor to choose the best option.
• Get both a Pap test and an HPV test every 5 years .
• Or, just get a Pap test every 3 years .
• Or, just get an HPV test every 5 years .

3. Colon Cancer Screening

This is also a common cancer. But tests can detect it early. If these tests find small growths (polyps) that could become cancerous, they can be removed before they become cancerous. That means these tests can also prevent cancer.

• When should you start?: People with average risk should start after age 45 .
• Main test: Colonoscopy . This involves inserting a small, lighted tube through the anus to examine the entire large intestine. This is usually done every 10 years .
• Other tests: There are other methods besides colonoscopy.
• Fecal occult blood tests - These should be done every one to three years.
• Virtual colonoscopy - every 5 years.
• Sigmoidoscopy (Flexible sigmoidoscopy) - every 5 years.

Other cancer tests to discuss

In addition to the tests mentioned above, there are a few other tests that are recommended for people with certain risk factors. These are not necessary for everyone, but it is worth discussing these with your doctor based on your risk.

What happens when the test results are received?

This is also a question on the minds of many people.

Imagine you've taken a test. It's normal to feel a little nervous while waiting for the results.

• If the result is normal: This means that the test did not find anything suspicious. That is good news. Your doctor will then tell you when to have the next test.
• If the result is abnormal: Don't be alarmed by this. An abnormal result does not mean you have cancer. It just means there is something else that needs to be investigated further. Your doctor will then order further tests (such as a biopsy) to confirm the diagnosis.

Questions to ask your doctor

At your next doctor's appointment, don't be afraid to talk about these cancer tests. You can ask questions like these:

• "Doctor, what cancer tests should I have based on my age and health?"
• "Why are you recommending those tests to me?"
• "Do I need to do these tests quickly?"
• "How are those tests done? How should I prepare for them?"
• "How often do I need to repeat these tests?"

Asking questions like these will help you gain clarity and reduce your fear. Getting tested for cancer means you are taking responsibility for your health . It is not something to be afraid of, but rather a loving act of self-care.