Description

What is a Cancer Screening Test?

Cancer screening tests are medical tests used to help detect cancer in the early stages of asymptomatic individuals. Early-diagnosed cancers respond better to treatment and the spread of the disease can be controlled. Therefore, regular cancer screenings are an important step in protecting public health in countries with developed health infrastructures, such as Turkey.

Cancer Screening Test Types and Areas of Use

Cancer screening tests vary by cancer type and are customized based on a person’s age, gender, genetic predisposition or risk factors, such as:

For Breast Cancer: Mammography takes X-ray images of breast tissue to evaluate possible abnormalities.

For Cervical Cancer: Pap smears and HPV tests are used to check for abnormal cells by taking samples of cervical cells. For Colorectal Cancer: A colonoscopy or fecal occult blood test is used, a detailed scan that examines the lining of the colon and rectum. For Prostate Cancer: Prostate health is assessed using a PSA test and a digital rectal exam. For Lung Cancer: Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is used to detect lung cancer risk in long-term smokers.

These tests are usually recommended regularly to risk groups or certain age groups and are performed at intervals determined by the doctor according to personal health history.

How is Cancer Screening Done?

Cancer screening tests are performed using a variety of methods, and the methods used vary depending on the type of cancer. Some common screening methods include:

• Mammography: X-ray images of breast tissue are taken to detect breast cancer.
• Pap Smear and HPV Test: Cervical cells are evaluated for cervical cancer.
• Colonoscopy: A flexible tube equipped with a camera is used to examine the inner surface of the colon and rectum.
• PSA Test and Digital Rectal Exam: A blood test and physical exam are performed to evaluate prostate health.
• Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT): Images of the lungs are taken using low doses of radiation to determine the risk of lung cancer.

Your doctor determines which tests are needed based on your personal health history and risk factors.

Who is Recommended for Cancer Screening?

Cancer screening tests are especially important for the following groups:

• High Risk Groups: Those with a family history of cancer, individuals with genetic predisposition.
• Specific Age Groups: For example, age 50 and above for colorectal cancer, age 40 and above for breast cancer.
• Special Risk Factors: Smokers or those with certain chemical exposures.
• People Who Have Previously Received Cancer Treatment: Individuals who are at risk of developing cancer again.

For Which Cancers Is Regular Screening Recommended?

Regular cancer screenings can help detect some types of cancer early. Commonly recommended screenings include:

• Breast Cancer: Mammography screenings are recommended for women age 40 and older.
• Cervical Cancer: Regular Pap smear and HPV tests are performed starting at the age of 21.
• Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopy or other appropriate screening tests are recommended for individuals age 50 and older.
• Prostate Cancer: PSA testing and digital rectal exams are recommended for men in certain age groups.
• Lung Cancer: Low-dose CT scans may be performed, especially in long-term smokers.

Early Diagnosis of Cancer

Early diagnosis of cancer increases the success of the treatment process and helps control the disease. Regular screening tests can detect cancer before symptoms appear and increase the patient’s survival rate. Early diagnosis also allows for less invasive treatment options.

Can Cancer Be Diagnosed After a Normal Check-Up?

Yes, even if the check-up results are normal, a person may be diagnosed with cancer in the future. Standard screening tests cannot always detect cancer with 100% accuracy; some types of cancer can develop more quickly and may appear between screenings. Therefore, even when a normal check-up result is received, a doctor should be consulted if new or changing symptoms are noticed.

Tests Used for Cancer Diagnosis; The main tests used for early diagnosis are:

• Screening Tests: These are tests that detect cancer before there are any obvious symptoms (such as mammography, colonoscopy, Pap smear).
• Genetic Testing: It is performed for individuals with a genetic predisposition to high cancer risk.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, MRI, CT and PET scans provide detailed examination of the body’s internal structure to identify potentially cancerous areas.

Other Methods in Cancer Diagnosis; In addition to diagnosing cancer:

• Biopsy: Examination of a sample of suspicious tissue under a microscope.
• Laboratory Tests: Evaluation of cancer markers through blood and urine analysis.
• Imaging Tests: MRI, CT, and PET scans are performed to determine the spread and stage of cancer.

In summary; Cancer screening tests are regularly recommended, especially for high-risk groups and individuals of certain ages. The frequency of screening tests is determined by the person’s health history and risk factors. Health professionals can provide guidance on which tests should be done and how often.