What is Cancer Screening and Why is it Important?
Cancer screening consists of tests and examinations performed on healthy individuals who have no symptoms or complaints, in order to detect a possible cancer or precursor lesions that may lead to cancer. The main goal of cancer screenings is to detect the disease at the earliest stage, before it spreads and when the chances of successful treatment are highest. It should be remembered that in cancer treatment, early diagnosis is the most critical factor determining the success of the treatment.
Screening programs are not available for every type of cancer. They are generally applied to cancers that are common in the population, have an effective screening test for early detection, and where early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Commonly Recommended Cancer Screening Programs
Which screening to perform, for whom, when, and how often; is determined based on age, gender, and other risk factors the individual carries. The main screening programs widely implemented in our country and around the world are as follows:
-
Breast Cancer Screening:
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. The primary screening method for early diagnosis is -
Cervical (Uterine) Cancer Screening:
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that can be prevented through screening. The screening uses Pap Smear test and HPV-DNA test. These tests can detect cellular changes that carry a risk of progressing to cancer or HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection that causes these changes. It is generally recommended that women starting from age 30 have both HPV and Pap smear tests combined every 5 years. -
Colorectal (Large Intestine) Cancer Screening:
This common cancer in both women and men can be screened using different methods. The "gold standard" method is colonoscopy. Colonoscopy allows both the detection and removal of polyps that can turn into cancer. It is usually recommended to perform colonoscopy starting at age 45-50, once every 10 years in individuals without risk factors. A simpler screening method, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), is performed annually or every 2 years, and if positive, further examination with colonoscopy is required. -
Prostate Cancer Screening:
For men, screening for prostate cancer, which is common, involves a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test and a digital rectal examination performed by a healthcare professional. However, whether routine prostate cancer screening should be done for every man is a subject of debate. Therefore, men over age 50 should discuss the potential benefits and risks with their doctor and decide personally whether to undergo screening.
Talk to Your Doctor
Cancer screenings are an important part of healthy living. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider to determine which screenings are appropriate for your age, gender, and personal risk factors, when to start them, and how often they should be repeated. A personalized screening program will be the most valuable help in protecting your health.
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.