Why are cancer screenings so important?
Nearly one half of all men and 1 in 3 women will develop cancer in their lifetime. Early detection is vital to survival. Primary care physicians routinely screen for several of the most common cancers.
Cancer screening tests are reasonably accurate, minimally uncomfortable, and are used to detect common cancers.
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer affects one in every 8 American women. All women should do monthly self-breast examinations. Mammograms should be done every other year beginning at age 40 and annually after age 50. Woman at high risk of developing breast cancer need more frequent monitoring. It is important to talk with your doctor regarding your risk factors and monitoring.
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer will strike 14,000 American women this year. Annual pelvic exams and pap smears should be done yearly for all women who are sexually active. For women that have had 2 – 3 normal smears and are at low risk of developing cervical cancer, pap smears can be reduced to every other year.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer will develop in one quarter of a million men this year. Men should have a digital rectal exam and a blood test called a PSA beginning at age 50. Men who are at high-risk of developing prostate cancer, should begin screenings at age 40.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer affects 1 in 18 Americans. Screening for colon cancer should begin at age 50, with a colonoscopy and repeated every 10 years. People who are at high risk of developing this cancer, should begin screening earlier. Talk with your doctor about risk factors associated with colon cancer and when is the best time to begin screenings.
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