CANCER SCREENING GUIDELINES

How can cancers be prevented?

Many common cancers can be prevented in men and women if early detection is carried out. It is advisable that people become familiar with certain risk factors, such as family history of cancer as well as modifiable external factors. For example, certain cancer risks can be lowered by carrying out simple things such as adjusting diet, using sunscreen, and getting more exercise.

Who gets breast cancer?

Breast cancer is an example of a cancer that if detected early enough can be treated. Women of any age can be diagnosed with breast cancer. There are certain risk factors, however, that put women more at risk. For example, a family history of breast cancer (mom or sister who have been diagnosed) can put a woman more at risk. Also, never giving birth is a risk factor as well as giving birth for the first time after the age of 30.

How can one prevent breast cancer? Early detection! If you are over the age of 40, get a mammogram every year and a clinical breast exam every year at the same time as your Pap. Do self breast exams every month. If you are between the ages of 20 and 39, then do self checks every month and get a clinical breast exam once a year with your Pap.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer affects anyone. People with a family history of the disease or who have polyps in the colon are at somewhat greater risk than the general population. Diets high in fat and low in fiber put people at higher risk. Cancers often begins with polyps, which are outgrowths of the colon. How can one prevent colon cancer? Again, early detection. Many options exist for colorectal cancer screening; if you are over the age of 50, it is recommended that you have screening done.

Prostate and Skin Cancer

Prostate cancer affects all men but is more common in those men over the age of 50. If you have a family member (father, brother, uncle) with prostate cancer, then you are more at risk. Prostate cancer can be detected at an early stage, and then has a better prognosis. You will need to come into the office to have an exam done, and a blood test will need to be ordered. Skin cancer can be easily treated and cured. One type of skin cancer, melanoma, is deadly if not treated early. People with fair complexions, especially redheads, are at greater risk.

How can I prevent cancer?

It is very important to have a physical on an annual basis so that the above screening guidelines can be enforced. Remember that cancer can be treated if detected early.