How to Know When You Need to See a Doctor for a Cancer Screening

Understanding Cancer Screening: What Is It and Why Is It Important?

Cancer screening refers to the process of using various tests and examinations to detect the presence of cancer or precancerous conditions in individuals who do not yet have symptoms. The primary goals of cancer screening are to identify cancers at an early stage when treatment is most effective, reduce cancer-related mortality rates, and improve overall outcomes for individuals at risk.

A Look at Common Cancer Screening Tests

There are many types of cancer and just as many types of screening tests. Let’s take a look at some of the most common cancer screening tests:

• Mammograms: Mammograms are X-ray inspections of the breast tissue, commonly used for breast cancer screening in women. Regular mammograms can detect breast cancer at an early stage, often before symptoms develop.
• Pap Smear (Pap Test): Pap smears involve collecting cells from the cervix to detect abnormal changes that may indicate cervical cancer or precancerous conditions. Routine Pap smears are recommended for women starting at age 21.
• Colonoscopy: This procedure allows doctors to examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities, such as polyps or early signs of colorectal cancer. It is recommended for individuals starting at age 45 to 50, depending on risk factors and guidelines.
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood, which can be elevated in men with prostate cancer. It is often used as part of prostate cancer screening discussions for men aged 50 and older.
• Skin Examinations: Dermatologists perform skin examinations to check for suspicious moles or lesions that may indicate skin cancer, such as melanoma. Regular skin checks are recommended for individuals with a history of sun exposure or risk factors for skin cancer.

When to Seek Cancer Screening

First and foremost, make sure to attend regular health check-ups with your primary care provider and assess your overall health, review your medical history, and discuss appropriate cancer screenings based on your age, gender, risk factors, and family history.
Follow the recommended age and gender guidelines for specific cancer screenings. For example, women should start mammograms at age 40 or earlier if there is a family history of breast cancer, and men should discuss prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider starting at age 50. Be aware of your family history of cancer and any personal risk factors, such as smoking, obesity, excessive sun exposure, or genetic predispositions. Individuals with a family history of certain cancers may need earlier or more frequent screenings.
Finally, pay attention to any signs or symptoms that could indicate a potential cancerous condition, such as:

• Changes in bowel habits, 
• Unexplained weight loss, 
• Persistent cough, 
• Lumps or masses, 
• Abnormal bleeding, 
• or skin changes. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider promptly. Residents in the area are welcomed to call Atlantic Physicians Group to schedule a convenient appointment or request a walk-in for as soon as possible.