How Routine Screenings Save Lives

Topic: How Routine Screenings Save Lives

Routine screenings have the potential to save lives by detecting cancer early on and helping patients receive the treatment they need. Sometimes, the cancer may be so small that it is hard to feel, but enhanced imaging and screenings are able to accurately detect even small spots. These methods include mammograms, low-dose CT scans, skin screenings, colonoscopies, and annual women’s exams.

The Importance of Mammograms

Receiving a mammogram is an integral part of every woman’s health. In essence, every woman that is the age of 40 or above, even if they are in good health, should have annual mammograms performed. Research has shown that annual screenings have been able to reduce the risk of death from breast cancer by up to 25%, therefore saving the lives of many individuals who received early treatment.

The Effectiveness of Low-Dose CT Scans

Another screening that saves lives is a low-dose CT scan, which has the ability to spot lung cancer. In fact, this particular screening method was shown to reduce the risk of dying from lung cancer by an additional 20% when compared with patients who received a standard chest x-ray.

Scheduling Skin Screenings

Skin screenings can help detect skin cancer, such as melanoma. Primary care physicians have the ability to refer patients to a dermatologist or oncologist, where a skin screening can be performed.

Receiving a Colonoscopy

Receiving a colonoscopy helps detect issues beforehand and is a great preventative measure. It can help in detecting colon or colorectal cancer as well. Colonoscopies are essential to individuals over the age of 50 and can help save lives by detecting cancer early, especially since the majority of colon cancers begin as a polyp.

Annual Women’s Exams

Women’s exams that are performed annually, such as cervical cancer screenings, can help detect abnormal or cancerous cells. The screening performed is called a pap smear and is a necessary preventative measure when it comes to cervical cancer. Typically, this screening starts at the age of 21 and is a quick procedure done in the office. The frequency may vary depending on a patient’s medical history, but usually women ages 21-29 receive one every 3 years, and women who are 30 or older receive one every 5 years.

Key Takeaway

Routine screenings help save lives and prevent unnecessary deaths by detecting cancer and other health issues early on. Some routine screenings to be aware of include mammograms, low-dose CT scans, skin screenings, colonoscopies, and annual women’s exams.

Topic Discussed: How Routine Screenings Save Lives