The medical field is ever-changing, with new technologies, tests, and studies emerging every day that help us evolve and grow in our practice. Cancer is a leading cause of death in the country, and unfortunately, you cannot prevent that type of disease. You can, however, schedule regular screenings for many kinds of cancer to detect them early. Catching cancer in its early stages can give you the best chance to beat it, which is why it is so important to stay up to date on your doctor’s visits and screenings. Keep reading to learn more about different kinds of cancers, screenings, and what they entail.
Breast Cancer
The most diagnosed cancer in women is breast cancer. Even so, when it is caught in early stages, breast cancer has an extremely successful survival rate. For women at average risk, screenings such as mammograms are recommended annually from ages 45 to 74. Women who have a family history of breast cancer, dense breasts, or who have other risks may need breast cancer screenings earlier in life, or more frequently than others. With regular screenings, you can catch any slight changes, detect cancer early, and have better treatment options. Screenings can include mammography, where detailed X-rays are taken of the breast tissue to detect cancer, or breast exams, where you visually inspect your breasts, as well as feel for any changes. Everyone’s breast tissue is different, so knowing what is normal for you can help you to identify when something has changed. Greenville Women’s Care provides 2D and 3D mammography, in which images of the breast tissue are taken from various angles. Speak with your provider about the best course of action and be proactive in your health screenings.
Cervical Cancer
Beginning at the age of 21, women should begin getting regular pap smears, whether they have been sexually active or not. Depending on your situation and previous test results, you may need a Pap smear every 1–3 years. A pap smear screening is when your doctor collects cells from your cervix to check for any abnormalities or changes. In most cases, cervical cancer is usually caused by HPV. You should also receive regular HPV tests between the ages of 30 and 65, usually every 5 years. Like other cancers, breast cancer screenings are key to detecting problems early and enabling more efficient treatment. Speak with your doctor about the screenings and tests that may be right for you, and other ways to prevent HPV.
Colorectal Cancer
Recently, there has been an increase in colorectal cancer in patients younger than 50. To protect yourself and catch colorectal issues early, the recommended screening is a colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, a camera is inserted into the colon to check for cancer or abnormal growths. You should begin getting a colonoscopy at age 45, and those at normal risk should schedule one every 10 years. For those who have gastrointestinal diseases, a family history of colorectal cancer, or have had abnormal results from a previous colorectal screening, your doctor may recommend starting your colorectal screenings at an earlier age or having them more frequently. Oftentimes, there are not many symptoms in the early stages of colorectal cancer, so screenings are crucial to catch any issues early on.
Lung Cancer
Though a lung cancer screening is not recommended for most people, it is suggested and available for anyone who smokes or has a history of smoking. The best way to be proactive when it comes to lung cancer is to quit smoking, but a low-dose CT screening also helps to detect any abnormalities in the lungs using a small dose of radiation. The earlier cancer is detected, the better your chances of successful treatment. If you are between 50 and 80, currently smoke, or have a history of smoking, lung cancer screening may be the right choice for you. We encourage you to talk with your provider about your options and whether a lung cancer screening may be beneficial.
Skin cancer
Skin cancer is extremely common and can usually be treated in its early stages. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 Americans will have skin cancer at some point in their life. When caught early, it can often be treated with minor surgery and generally does not affect your overall health, but at later stages, it can be more dangerous. Because you know your skin best, self-exams are a huge part of catching skin cancer. Check your body and moles – if they are asymmetrical, have an irregular border, are of various colors, or change in size, you should schedule an appointment to see your dermatologist. Individuals with many moles, fair skin, or a family or personal history of skin cancer may need more frequent skin exams or dermatological visits.
Greenville Women’s Care provides breast and cervical cancer screenings along with helpful information and support. Our providers are skilled at walking you through each screening, so you know exactly what to expect. We are here to answer your questions, give you peace of mind, and address any concerns you may have. Schedule your next screening with us today – it could save your life.