One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining health and wellness is staying proactive about regular cancer screenings. Early cancer detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. The multidisciplinary care team at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health provides compassionate care and support to the community for early detection and diagnoses. This comprehensive guide outlines the various cancer screenings available for breast, colorectal, lung, cervical, prostate and skin cancer.
Breast Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Mammograms are recommended starting age 40 for those considered at average risk for breast cancer.
Women with a family history or other risk factors should discuss appropriate screening options with their healthcare provider.
Women under 40 with a family history should discuss risk factors with a healthcare provider.
Screening Methods
Mammogram: This provides an X-ray of the breast and can detect tumors that are not yet palpable.
Breast MRI: This type of scan is recommended for women at high risk for breast cancer due to genetic factors or family history.
Screening Breast Ultrasound: This scan can help in identifying masses in denser breast tissue that might not be visible on mammogram. It is recommended in addition to a mammogram for patients at a higher risk for breast cancer.
What to Expect
During a mammogram, the breast is compressed between two plates to capture X-ray images. Some pressure or discomfort may be felt, but the procedure is brief and critical for early detection.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Adults aged 45 to 75 should undergo regular colorectal screenings.
Some adults under 45 may need to be screened earlier depending on family history or other genetic risks.
Those over 75 should consult with their healthcare provider to determine if continued screening is necessary.
Screening Methods
Colonoscopy: This procedure uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): A non-invasive test that detects hidden blood in the stool.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): Uses Computed tomography (CT) imaging to provide detailed views of the colon.
What to Expect
A colonoscopy can detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Screening is usually advised every ten years, but if you are at risk, screening may be recommended every 3 to 5 years after your initial colonoscopy.
Colonoscopy preparation includes bowel cleansing the day before and sedation during the procedure. FIT is a simple at-home test requiring no special preparation.
Lung Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Adults aged 50 to 80 with a significant smoking history (20 pack years or more) and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.
Screening Methods
Low-dose Computed Tomography (LDCT): A CT scan with low radiation doses to create detailed images of the lungs.
What to Expect
LDCT is a non-invasive scan that requires you to hold your breath for a few seconds.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Women aged 21 to 65 should undergo regular screenings.
Women aged 21 to 29 should have a Pap test every three years.
Women aged 30 to 65 should have a Pap test and HPV test every five years, or a Pap test alone every three years.
Screening Methods
Pap Test (sometimes called a Pap Smear): Collects cells from the cervix to detect precancers.
HPV Test: Identifies high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types that can cause cervical cancer.
What to Expect
The Pap test involves collecting cells from the cervix using a small brush. Some discomfort may be felt, but the procedure is brief and crucial for early detection.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Men aged 50 and older should discuss screening options with their healthcare provider.
Men at higher risk (African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer or are a BRCA2 gene carrier) should begin discussing screenings at age 40.
Screening Methods
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Measures PSA levels in the blood.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical examination where the provider feels the prostate through the rectum to detect abnormalities.
What to Expect
The PSA test is a simple blood test. The DRE may cause slight discomfort but is quick and essential for early detection.
Skin Cancer Screening
Who Should Get Screened?
Anyone with a suspicious lesion or abnormal area on their skin.
Individuals with more than 50 moles or dysplastic moles.
Those with a personal history of melanoma or history of other skin cancers.
Those who have more than one member of immediate family with a history of cancers (melanoma, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer) or a family member who was diagnosed with melanoma before they were 50 years old.
Positive gene testing for BRACA2, Lynch syndrome genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2 or EPCAM).
Screening Methods
Skin Exam: A visual examination by your provider to check for unusual moles, birthmarks, or other skin changes.
Biopsy: Removal of a small sample of skin for testing if an abnormal area is identified.
What to Expect
A skin exam is non-invasive and visual. A biopsy involves minor discomfort and local anesthesia if needed.
Expert Advice
Although the cadence of these skin screenings may or may not be annual, as one's age increases, the risk of many cancers rises. Everyone benefits from attentive sun protection, including avoiding direct sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. by seeking shade and wearing hats, clothing and sunscreen. When purchasing sunscreen, look for SPF 50, UVA/UVB broad spectrum.
Questions to Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider
What is my risk level for different types of cancer?
Which screening tests do you recommend for me and why?
What are the potential risks and benefits of each test?
How often should I get screened?
What steps to follow if a test result is abnormal?
Importance of Cancer Screenings
Regular cancer screenings are vital for maintaining your health and catching cancer early, when it is most treatable. Renown Health is dedicated to guiding you through the process and providing the highest quality of care. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate screenings for your specific needs and to take proactive steps toward a healthier future.
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