The Importance of Routine Cancer Screenings – Henry Mayo Newhall Hosptial

On May 11, 2023, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared an end to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. While the pandemic has taken center stage during the last three years, many people have put off routine cancer screenings. The consequences of delayed or canceled routine cancer screenings can be severe. According to the National Cancer Institute, this unfortunate situation may lead to over 10,000 cancer-related deaths in the next decade.
Cancer doesn’t often exhibit symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage, making early detection through routine screenings all the more important. These screenings have the potential to identify abnormalities before symptoms manifest, increasing the chances of successful treatment and cure. By waiting until symptoms become apparent, cancer may have already progressed or spread, making treatment and a complete cure more challenging.
Screening tests are not generally diagnostic tests for cancer; instead, they serve as a means to identify potential abnormalities that may require further investigation. Diagnostic tests are then performed to determine if cancer is present. The exception is screening colonoscopy for colorectal cancer in which polyps, if present, are removed and may either diagnosis cancer or even treat very early cancer by removal.
Certain individuals have a higher risk of developing specific types of cancer. These risk factors include personal and family history of cancer, exposure to cancer-causing substances, and advancing age. Cancer screening frequency, degree and start age should be nuanced based on how high risk you are for cancer. However, even those deemed low risk can still be susceptible to cancer. Therefore, it is important to consider routine screenings, even if deemed to be at lower or standard risk.
Various risk factors are associated with specific cancers such as breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers. These factors can include genetics, age, and lifestyle habits. For instance, smoking tobacco products accounts for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases, while a family history of prostate cancer significantly increases the chances of developing the disease.
Now is the moment to reintegrate regular cancer screenings into your healthcare routine. It is strongly advised to consult with your doctor to discuss the appropriate screening options based on your personal and family medical history, lifestyle factors, and age. Early detection remains one of the most effective strategies in the battle against cancer, and by prioritizing screenings you are taking positive steps toward maintaining good health and well-being.
To access further information or guidance regarding routine cancer screenings, visit www.henrymayo.com/screenings, where you will find comprehensive resources to assist you in understanding the importance of regular screenings.