Cancer screening tests are designed to find cancer or pre-cancerous areas before there are any symptoms and, generally, when treatments are most successful.
Basic screening tests for breast, cervical and ovarian cancers are recommended to begin as early as the late teens.
Tests for basic screening of women’s cancer –
⦿ Mammography: Mammography is a vital tool in women’s cancer screening, particularly for breast cancer. This low-dose X-ray examination helps detect early signs of breast abnormalities, including breast tumors. Regular mammograms, usually recommended annually for women over 40. Mammography is an essential part of routine healthcare that aids in early detection, reducing the risk of advanced-stage breast cancer.
⦿ PAP Smear: A PAP smear is an essential screening test for cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix to identify any abnormalities or precancerous changes that could lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. Regular PAP smears, generally recommended for women aged 21 to 65, enable early detection and intervention, significantly lowering the risk of cervical cancer.
Not all screening tests are right for everyone. Your personal and family cancer history, and/or the presence of a known genetic predisposition, can affect which tests are right for you, and at what age you begin them.Therefore, you should discuss these with your healthcare provider.
Contact Dr Mrunal Kapadnis for a comprehensive cancer screening plan.