Whereas if cancer is identified in the early stages, its treatment is not only easier but the chances of complete recovery of the person also increases manifold.
Health experts say that after the age of 35, every man and woman should get some important health screening tests done so that any disease, especially cancer, can be detected in time. Let us know about four such important screening tests.
routine cancer screening test
Regular checkups i.e. standard cancer screening tests are considered the backbone of cancer prevention. Doctors all over the world recognize these tests.
Colonoscopy: Every person should get this test done after the age of 45 years. It provides early detection of colon cancer. It also detects abnormal growth before it becomes cancer. It is generally recommended to repeat it every 10 years.
Mammogram: This test is necessary for women above 40 years of age. It should be done once every 1 to 2 years. It can detect breast cancer at an early stage.
Pap smear / HPV test: Necessary checkup for women above 21 years of age. This provides early detection of cervical cancer. This should be done once every 3 to 5 years.
PSA Test: Gives early signs of prostate cancer in men. Especially men above 45 years of age should get it done.
Gallery Test: One test for more than 50 cancers
Technology has now made cancer detection easier. The Galleri Test is a modern blood test that can provide early detection of more than 50 types of cancer from a single sample. It checks for abnormal changes in DNA present in the blood. It may indicate the early presence of cancer even when there are no symptoms. If there is a history of cancer in the family, it is beneficial to get this test done once a year.
Genetic Tests
Many times cancer occurs not only due to wrong lifestyle but also due to genetic reasons. If someone in the family has cancer at a young age, then the risk of it increases in other members too. Genetic testing examines gene mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2 or Lynch Syndrome, which make a person susceptible to cancer. If gene changes are found, doctors can monitor them in advance. Timely scanning and prevention measures can be initiated.
Full Body MRI
Full body MRI scan is a modern test which shows the condition inside the body without radiation. It may detect hidden abnormalities or tumors in multiple organs. It can detect early stage diseases even when symptoms are not visible. Combining it with gall bladder test or genetic test gives accurate results. However, doctors say that every small abnormality is not a cause for concern, hence MRI reports should always be interpreted with expert advice.
After the age of 35, many changes start taking place in the body. Therefore, by getting these four tests done from time to time, you can prevent not only cancer but many serious diseases in the beginning itself. The best way to prevent cancer. Get tested on time and adopt a healthy lifestyle.