Latest cancer screenings up the odds of successful treatment
The key to beating cancer is finding it early, when the chances of successful treatment are highest, according to Jennifer Vickerman, R.N., M.S., Mills-Peninsula cancer nurse specialist.
“Cancer is still the second leading cause of death in America,” she said. “Yet, if we catch it when it’s small and before it has spread into surrounding tissues or the lymph system – the possibility of treating it successfully is much greater.”
That’s why screening and early detection is so important. “Screenings look for cancer in people without symptoms,” Vickerman said. “For some types of cancer we have no way to screen, but we know what symptoms to look for – this is early detection.”
For example, endometrial cancer – the fourth most common cancer in women – is not screened for in a Pap test, which only checks for cervical cancer. “However, it causes bleeding very early in its course,” she said. “That’s why postmenopausal women who have abnormal bleeding or spotting should see their doctor or health practitioner.”
Scientists are always looking for better cancer screening methods, Vickerman said. “Currently they are exploring easier ways to look inside the colon,” she said. “The latest development uses a camera in a capsule that’s swallowed and takes pictures as it goes through the colon.”
A single-breath-hold CT scan is also being studied as a possible screening for lung cancer, she said. “Mills-Peninsula is currently conducting a two-year study of people who are at high risk using this technique.” Vickerman will discuss the latest cancer screenings at the Wellness Center this month, including the current recommendations for:
Breast cancer
Women age 40 or older, an annual clinical exam and annual mammography
Prostate cancer
Men age 50 or older, an annual digital rectal exam and prostate specific antigen test (PSA)
African American men and those at high risk (a family history) should start at age 45
Cervical cancer
An annual Pap test and pelvic exam (After three normal tests women can be tested less frequently.)
Colorectal cancer
Men and women age 50 or older, an annual fecal occult blood test and a flexible sigmoidoscopy
Cancer-related check ups
Monthly self skin examination
Men and women: an annual cancer related checkup including thyroid, ovaries, oral cavity, lymph nodes and skin.
“Cancer Screening – What You Should Know,” will be held April 15, 10 – 11 a.m. Admission is $3. Call 696-5600 to register.