Regular examinations play a crucial role in early disease detection, especially for conditions like cancer, where early intervention significantly improves treatment outcomes. Cancer screening tests enhance the likelihood of detecting the disease early, aiding in timely treatment.
However, understanding when and which tests should be performed can be challenging. Recent medical research has prompted a reduction in the recommended ages for breast and colorectal cancer screenings due to an increasing number of individuals under 50 being diagnosed with these cancers, along with others, according to Wall Street reports, reports Al-Qabas daily.
Certain cancer screening tests, though designed to identify cancer risks, come with limitations such as false alarms. Therefore, the frequency and timing of these tests can vary based on family history and individual risk. General recommendations are tailored for those at average risk, while those with higher risks may need more immediate testing.
For older individuals, early screening offers benefits in reducing the risk of succumbing to the disease. Deciding when to commence screening, the frequency, and when to cease can be nuanced, according to Timothy Rebeck, a cancer epidemiologist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. For instance, the American College of Health suggests that women consult their doctors by age 25 to assess breast cancer risk before initiating screening.
The latest expert guidance on cancer screening and genetic risk testing includes:
Breast Cancer:
- Women at average risk should start mammograms at age 40, as per the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
- The frequency can be every two years, although some doctors advocate annual exams. Opinions on when to stop mammograms vary among medical groups.
Colon and Rectum:
- Individuals at average risk should commence colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
- The frequency depends on the test, with options for home tests every one to three years and colonoscopy every 10 years.
- Screening should continue until age 75, with further assessments based on the patient’s health and doctor’s advice.
Lung and Prostate:
- Annual low-dose CT scans are recommended for lung cancer screening in adults aged 50 to 80 with a history of significant smoking.
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests are advised for men aged 55 to 69 for prostate cancer detection.
Cervical Cancer:
- Women should undergo Pap smears every three years from ages 21 to 65.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) tests can be conducted every five years.
Additionally, a revolutionary blood test known as the Gallery test detects early signs of over 50 types of cancer. While this test holds promise, it is currently under review, not yet FDA-approved, and not widely recommended. Many doctors are enthusiastic about its potential but await more data before endorsing its widespread use.
