Cancer screenings are preventive healthcare measures that involve testing for cancer in individuals without current symptoms. The process varies depending on the type of cancer being screened. Here's a general overview of how some common cancer screenings are done:
1.
Breast Cancer Screening: Typically involves a mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast tissue. It can help detect tumors at an early stage.
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Cervical Cancer Screening: Often done through a Pap test (Pap smear) and/or an HPV (Human Papillomavirus) test. The Pap test examines cells from the cervix for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions.
3.
Colorectal Cancer Screening: Can include a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) which detects hidden blood in the stool, or more invasive tests like a colonoscopy, where a doctor uses a colonoscope to examine the inside of the colon and rectum.
4.
Lung Cancer Screening: For high-risk individuals, this may involve a low-dose CT (computed tomography) scan of the chest to detect lung nodules or abnormalities.
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Prostate Cancer Screening: Often involves a blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and/or a digital rectal exam (DRE) where a doctor examines the prostate gland for any hard lumps or abnormalities.
It's important to note that while cancer screenings can detect cancer early, they are not a substitute for a thorough medical examination or treatment. Individuals should discuss with their healthcare provider which screenings are appropriate for their age, gender, and risk factors.
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