Cancer screening is a test that looks for early signs of cancer in people with no apparent symptoms. It can help spot cancers at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.
Early-stage cancers can be treated more readily, as the disease is localized to the organ. The treatment regimens may also be relatively less aggressive and cause fewer disruptions to patients’ lives.
Cancer screening should become a part of regular health checkups after the age of 40, as the risk of certain cancers starts increasing after this age.
You need cancer screening tests to detect cancer early, often before symptoms appear, when treatment is likely to be more effective and less invasive.
Cancer screening tests can help one:
The benefits of cancer screening outweigh its risks or drawbacks; hence, it is widely recommended to all individuals.
Cancer screening is recommended for everyone after the age of 40.
However, some individuals, referred to as “high-risk individuals,” are recommended to undergo cancer screening tests from a much younger age or more frequently. Possible reasons include a family history of cancer, the presence of certain cancer-causing mutations, and exposure to various cancer risk factors.
Also, some screening tests may be recommended only for high-risk individuals. The following factors may be considered while recommending cancer screening:
Cancer screening tests are used to detect signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in people without symptoms. Some common cancer screening tests include:
During a physical examination, doctors look for the following abnormalities that might indicate the presence of cancer:
Laboratory tests are recommended to analyze blood, urine, or other body fluids for cancer markers and other anomalies.
Screening for certain cancers may involve imaging tests. These tests produce detailed images of the internal structures of the body and help doctors look for the presence of cancer.
Genetic tests for cancer look for inherited gene mutations that increase cancer risk.
Some other types of cancer-specific screening tests include:
Breast cancer screening tests can aid in the early detection of breast cancer. Screening mammography has been shown to reduce deaths from breast cancer among women ages 40 to 74, especially those between the ages of 50 and 69. Expert groups generally recommend that women begin breast cancer screening at age 40.
Human papillomavirus tests and Pap tests are recommended as cervical cancer screening tests that can be used alone or in combination. These tests prevent the disease because they allow abnormal cells to be found and treated before they become cancerous. Expert groups generally recommend that testing begin at age 21 and end at age 65 (for women who have had adequate prior screening and are not otherwise at high risk for cervical cancer).
Several screening tests, including colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and stool tests (such as high-sensitivity fecal occult blood tests and fecal immunochemical tests), have been shown to reduce the risk of death from colorectal cancer. In addition to detecting colorectal cancer early, some tests can find abnormal colon growths (polyps), allowing them to be removed before they become cancerous. Expert groups generally recommend that people who are at average risk for colorectal cancer have regular colorectal cancer screening at ages 45 through 75.
Low-dose helical computed tomography, a type of CT scan, has been shown to reduce lung cancer deaths among heavy smokers by aiding the timely detection of the disease. Expert groups generally recommend screening some current or former heavy smokers at ages 50 to 80.
HCG offers high-end cancer screening services as part of its comprehensive oncology services, designed to detect cancer early, even before symptoms appear.
Choosing HCG for cancer screening services ensures you receive the highest standard of care, combining expertise with compassionate service.
HCG, a leading hospital for cancer treatment in India, is renowned for its expertise and extensive experience in cancer care, meaning you are in the hands of professionals who understand the nuances of cancer detection and treatment. We boast state-of-the-art diagnostic facilities that leverage the latest technology to provide accurate and early detection of various cancers.
Our team of skilled and compassionate oncologists is dedicated to delivering personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We adopt a patient-centric approach, ensuring that you are informed, supported, and comfortable throughout the screening process.
Cancer screening is a vital tool in the fight against cancer, aiming to detect the disease early, before symptoms arise, and when treatment is most effective. Regular screening can save lives by detecting cancers or precancerous conditions in stages when they are best treated. With a wide range of screening methods available—from physical exams and lab tests to imaging and genetic testing—individuals can take proactive steps based on their personal risk factors. Trusted healthcare providers like HCG play a crucial role in offering comprehensive, accurate, and compassionate screening services, helping people take charge of their health with confidence.