Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. It caused nearly one crore deaths in 2020, with lung cancer leading the list, followed by colon, liver, stomach, and breast cancer, according to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) report.
The good news is that between 30 and 50% of cancers can currently be prevented by taking scientifically-backed measures and avoiding various risk factors, such as tobacco consumption, and alcohol consumption, an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and air pollution. Moreover, regular screenings can also help in the early diagnosis of cancer, promoting better health outcomes.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Ajay Shah, Managing Director, Neuberg Ajay Shah Laboratory, Mumbai, shares a helpful guide to cancer screening recommendations for different age groups.
Also Read: PSA Test For Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: Things Men Need To Know About It
Cancer Screenings For Ages 21-39
Individuals with a family history of breast or colon cancer are advised to initiate screening earlier in their lives, especially if their risk is higher than the average population, Dr Shah advises.
He further recommends cervical cancer screening at 25 years of age, with primary Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing every five years or co-testing with HPV DNA + Pap tests every five years. You can also get Pap tests every three years.
As per the WHO, almost all cervical cancer cases are linked to infection with high-risk HPVs.
Cancer Screenings For Ages 40–65
For people in the age group between 40 and 65, Dr Shah recommends starting colon cancer screening at 45 with annual stool-based tests, colonoscopy every ten years, and sigmoidoscopy every five years.
For women aged 45–54, annual mammography for breast cancer screening is crucial, followed by biennial screenings, which are mammograms with less risk of adverse effects.
Those who have yet to get a cervical cancer screening should commence with primary HPV testing every five years.
Lung cancer screening via a low-dose Computed Tomography (CT) scan is recommended after 50 for individuals with a smoking history of 20 pack years, said Dr Shah.
Starting at age 45, men at higher than average risk of prostate cancer should also get themselves tested for prostate cancer, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Risk factors usually include age, a family history of prostate cancer, obesity, ethnicity, and race.
Also Read: Rare, But Men Can Also Develop Breast Cancer: Expert Shares Who Is At Risk And Warning Signs
Cancer Screenings For Ages Over 65 Years
Colon cancer screening is advised until 75 years of age.
Cervical cancer screening should continue until negative results persist for ten years with regular testing.
Lung cancer and prostate cancer screening should extend up to 80 years.
Preventive Measures
Sharing some of the most effective ways to prevent cancer, Dr Shah lists:
- Avoid tobacco products like cigarettes, beedis, zarda, and paan masala
- Ensure smoke-free environments at home and work, and avoid smoky venues
- Maintain a healthy body weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet
- Incorporate physical activity into daily routines
- Follow a healthy diet low in fat, sugar, and salt
- Abstain from alcohol consumption, as any amount can adversely affect your health
Conclusion
Age-appropriate cancer screenings can help in the early detection of the disease and promote effective management of cancer, improving outcomes and reducing mortality rates. If you have a risk factor for cancer, including a family history of cancer, a genetic predisposition to the disease, or a previous infection linked to a particular type of cancer, it is even more important to get yourself screened regularly. Speak with your healthcare provider to plan the same.