As we usher in the new year, health and well-being take center stage in our resolutions. Among the various health goals one should consider, scheduling screenings for cancer emerges as a pivotal step towards early detection and effective treatment. Regular cancer screening is integral to identifying small, symptomless cancers early when treatments have higher success rates. Considering the ongoing advancements in medical understanding, it is vital to understand the importance of screenings in improving health, impacting survival, and reducing late-stage cancer diagnoses. As certain cancers, such as breast, colon, and lung, continue to rise, the critical role of screenings becomes more evident.
Cancer Screenings To Get Done This Year
Let's delve into the top five cancer screenings that health experts recommend you keep on your radar in 2024:
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer screenings include the HPV test and Pap smear, both effective in detecting cervical cancer early or preventing its development. Commencing after the age of 18, women can undergo these tests to assess the risk of cervical cancer based on their age.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests are essential for detecting prostate cancer. Discussions about prostate screening should commence at different ages based on risk factors. The American Cancer Society suggests screening at age 50 for men at average risk, age 45 for those at high risk, and age 40 for men with multiple first-degree relatives diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age.
Mammogram
A mammogram, an X-ray image of the breast, is crucial for the early detection of breast cancer. Regular mammograms enable doctors to analyze changes over time and identify breast cancer up to three years before it can be felt. The American Cancer Society provides guidelines for women at average risk, recommending annual mammograms for those aged 40 to 44 and suggesting yearly or biennial screenings for those aged 45 and above. In cases of higher risk, additional evaluations, such as ultrasound and MRI, may be included.
Also Read: Study Finds Exercise Cuts Down The Risk Of Breast Cancer In Young Women By 10%
Colorectal Screenings
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends colorectal cancer screenings for both men and women aged 45 to 75. Various screening tests, including colonoscopy, are available to detect polyps or colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy, often used for preventive screening, allows doctors to check for abnormalities and, if necessary, remove polyps during the procedure. The frequency of screenings depends on individual and familial risk factors.
Lung Cancer Screening
People with a 20-pack-year or more smoking history, current or former smokers who quit within the past 15 years, and those aged 50 to 80 should consider annual lung cancer screenings. The recommended test is a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan, a quick procedure involving an X-ray machine capturing images of the lungs.
As we embark on a new year, let these top 5 cancer screenings guide you toward proactive health management. Early detection through screenings is a powerful tool in ensuring a healthier and more resilient future. Prioritize your health and make these screenings a crucial part of your 2024 wellness journey.