HEALTH & MEDICINE :: JUNE/JULY 2008
Four Essential Cancer Screening Tests for Women
Screening tests play a vital role for maintaining health. Many types of cancer only present symptoms once advanced, so early detection relies on screening tests. Preventing problems and early detection are essential, therefore screening tests are available that are highly effective and recommended for all women. While the recommendations for the timing of certain screening tests varies slightly between different medical organizations, the following can serve as a guideline. Each patient should talk to their doctor about which tests are appropriate for them.
1.Mammogram for Breast Cancer
Women who are over 40 or whom have a strong family history need to have a regular mammogram every 1-2 years and yearly after age 50. A mammogram is a specialized x-ray of the breast to look for an early signs of breast cancer. In addition to a mammogram at recommended intervals, women of all ages should perform monthly self breast exams and have a yearly clinical breast exam by a qualified practitioner. Women with one or more first degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with pre-menopausal breast cancer should begin screening at an earlier age and should consult their physician.
Among women in the United States, breast cancer is the most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death. It is estimated that in 2008, 182,000 new cases of breast cancer will be found (National Cancer Institute). Women in the United States have a 1 in 8 (12.5%) lifetime chance of developing breast cancer. Breast cancer screening attempts to find unsuspected cancers hopefully at a more curable stage. Mammography has been estimated to reduce breast cancer-related mortality by 20-30%.
2. Colonoscopy or Recommended Colon Cancer Screening Test
For healthy individuals without a significant family history of colon cancer, screening should begin at age 50. If there is a family history of colon cancer or personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, screening should begin at a younger age on an individual basis. There are several different screening methods available in addition to colonoscopy and each patient should consult with their doctor about which screening method is appropriate for them.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer. Mortality rates have declined in both men and women during the past 20 years (American Cancer Society) and a large part of that decrease is thought to be due to earlier detection secondary to screening. According to the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 148,000 cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in 2008.
3.Pap Smear for Cervical Cancer
A pap smear is the collection of cells from the cervix to be examined under a microscope. The early detection of abnormal cells can prevent cervical cancer from developing. The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus between the body of the uterus and the vagina. According to the American College of Gynecologists, a pelvic exam and pap smear should be performed annually. The exams should begin at age 18 or when the patient becomes sexually active, and discontinued or performed less frequently only on a physician’s advice usually only after age 65-70. According to the National Cancer Institute, there will be an estimated 11,000 new case of cervical cancer diagnosed in 2008 and 3,800 deaths.
4. Skin Exam for Skin Cancer
A complete skin examination should be performed by a qualified clinician every 3 years between ages of 20-40, and every year for anyone age 40 and older. Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer. Most types if caught early are highly curable. In addition to a skin examination, sun exposure should be limited and sunscreen applied daily. Any new skin changes should be reported to your doctor when identified.
Please contact Dr. Katherine Sahm at the Christiana Institute of Advanced Surgery at 537 Stanton Christiana Road, Newark, Delaware 19713. Dr. Sahm provides these General Surgery evaluations and treatments for the majority of these screenings. She also performs screening endoscopy and Breast Cancer surgery. Please call Dr. Katherine Sahm at 302-892-9900 for an appointment.
Christiana Institute of Advanced Surgery also performs Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass and Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding surgery for the treatment of Morbid Obesity. Please call our office or visit our web site @ www.chrias.com for a schedule of our free seminars.
