Early Cancer Detection

Early cancer detection helps save lives and reduces suffering. This conclusion not only makes good sense but it is also supported by medical scientific research and expert opinion. The American Cancer Society (ACS) has established recommendations for the early detection of certain cancers in people who are not experiencing any symptoms. Early detection may be accomplished by self examinations, physical examinations by a health professional, and by x-ray or laboratory testing.

The ACS has established screening guidelines for, among others, breast, cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancers. The five year survival rate for people with cancers for which the ACS has specific early detection recommendations is about 82%. The five year survival rate is the percentage of people alive at least five years after the diagnosis of cancer. It is a proven fact that the outlook for survival for these people is greatly increased by early detection.

The standard of care in medical practice has changed. With the advent of preventative medicine, health professionals are expected to not only take care of medical problems but also to take reasonable steps to prevent disease. Their roles have changed from a reactive one to a proactive one. Sound medical practice mandates that cancer screening be part of your total medical care package. It is important to ensure that your healthcare professional is doing all that he can to protect your good health. Early detection is paramount to survival. Discouraging or refusing testing is not appropriate. Failure to follow the established guidelines for the early detection of these and other cancers may result in delayed diagnosis and poor prognosis.

Breast cancer:
Yearly mammograms starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health. Clinical breast exams should be part of a periodic health exam every year for women 40 and over. Breast self examination is an option for women starting in their 20s. Special considerations are indicated in women at increased risk.

Cervical cancer:
Annual Pap testing beginning at no later than 21 years old. Beginning at age 30, women who have had 3 normal Pap tests in a row may get screened every 2 to 3 years. Alternatively, women over 30 may get screened every three years. Women at increased risk should continue annual screening. Women who have undergone total hysterectomy merit special consideration.

Prostate cancer:
Both PSA (blood test for prostate-specific antigen) and digital rectal examination should be offered annually, beginning at 50 years of age. Men at increased risk for this cancer should begin testing at age 45.

Colorectal cancer:
Beginning at age 50, both men and women should follow either: annual check for blood in the stool with a sigmoidoscopy every five years; double-contrast enema every five years; or a colonoscopy every ten years. People at increased risk for this cancer should begin screening earlier and/or undergo screening more often.

* For complete information about their cancer screening recommendations, contact the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org. or call them toll free at 1 (800) ACS-2345.