Cancer screening: what tests you should be doing and when

Cancer affects millions of people throughout the world. Though there are some things we can do to try and prevent it, such as adopting a healthy lifestyle, unfortunately this doesn’t necessarily mean we’ll be safe from cancer. For this reason,  running screening tests plays a crucial role in the early detection, treatment, and outcome of cancer. 

Click through the following gallery and get to know the most popular cancer screening tests and when/if you should get them done.  

Raising awareness

In 2022, actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney both got colonoscopies to raise awareness about colorectal cancer in people under 50. This is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in the US.

“It’s not every day that you can raise awareness about something that will most definitely save lives. That’s enough motivation for me to let you in on a camera being shoved up my [ ],” said Reynolds.

Both Ryan Reynolds and the ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ actor turned 45 this year. A colonoscopy is recommended at this age and can indeed save one’s life.

Screening tests

Now, let’s take a look at other cancer screening tests and when you should be doing them. Screening tests are performed in order to find cancer before any symptoms appear. This will allow for treatment, and vastly increases the likelihood of a successful recovery.

Breast cancer screening

Screening mammography is an x-ray of the breasts. It is used to detect signs of breast cancer. The recommended age to start screening varies, depending on risk factors as well as where you’re based in the world. In the US, for instance, it is recommended for women at age 50 (for those at an average risk level).

Cervical cancer screening

Human papillomavirus (HPV) tests and Pap tests (or pap smears) are essential to detect any abnormal cells that might evolve into cancer. Most women start this type of screening at age 21 and continue to do so throughout their lives until around age 65.

Colorectal cancer screening

A colonoscopy is the most popular screening test for colorectal cancer, though other tests are also used, namely sigmoidoscopies and stool tests. Screening starts at around age 45 and continues through to age 75. A colonoscopy is used to find abnormal colon growths (called polyps). These can then be removed before they become cancer.

Lung cancer screening

There is a specific type of CT scan that is used to screen for lung cancer. It’s called a low-dose helical computed tomography. People at risk, especially heavy smokers, should be screened, especially between the ages of 50 and 80.

Other screening tests

People who are at higher risk of certain cancers are sometimes prescribed other screening tests. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Clinical breast exams and breast self-exams

These are the first line of prevention when it comes to detecting any abnormalities in breast tissue that will require further investigation.

Source: Cancer screening: what tests you should be doing and when (msn.com)