As we all know, early detection is very important in enabling the opportunity of effective treatment and a more robust chance of recovering from or facilitating remission from cancer. Cancer can affect anyone despite age, ethnicity or sex, it’s vital you recognize the way to reduce your risk of getting it or dying from it. There are simple things we are able to do to cut back our risk for cancer.
Generally, it’s impossible to grasp exactly why one person develops cancer and another doesn’t. But research has shown that certain risk factors may increase a person’s chances and a few factors are linked to a lower risk of cancer. Cancer risk factors include exposure to chemicals or other substances.
Over time, several factors may act together to cause normal cells to become cancerous. When considering the risks of getting cancer, here are stuff you should remember:
- Not everything causes cancer.
- Cancer isn’t caused by an injury, like a bump or bruise.
- Cancer isn’t contagious. Although being infected with certain viruses or bacteria may increase the danger of some forms of cancer.
- Having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean that you simply will get cancer. Some of those who have risk factors never develop cancer.
- Some people are more sensitive than others to the known risk factors.
Types of cancer screenings
Cervical Cancer – Pap smear
This is a procedure whereby cells from the surface of the cervix are collected and sent to a laboratory. The cells are viewed under a microscope, after staining, to see if the cells are abnormal. Abnormalities of the cervix can be detected before they becomes cancerous.
Breast Cancer – Clinical Breast Examination
This is a physical and visual examination of the breast by a trained, professional nurse or doctor, to detect abnormalities.
Prostate Cancer – Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Testing
The PSA test could be a biopsy that’s sent to a laboratory for analysis and an accustomed screen for prostate cancer. The test measures the number of prostate-specific antigens (a protein produced by normal prostate cells) within the blood, as raised levels may indicate prostate inflammation or cancer.
Skin Cancer Screening – Clinical Mole Analysis and Fotofinder Mole Analysis
A trained professional clinically assesses a mole in line with the globally accepted ABCDE screening guide or uses a FotoFinder (electronic device) that measures the danger profile of the mole to detect suspicious moles on an enhanced clinical level.
Other cancer early detection tools
Breast Self-Examination
Women can perform a monthly breast self-examination to detect abnormalities to increase their breast awareness. They utilize their eyes and hands to see if there are any changes to the design and feel of their breasts for possible lumps, distortions or swelling.
Testicular Self-Examination
This is a procedure where a person examines his testicles and scrotum for possible lumps or swelling. it’s usually undertaken while standing before a mirror and primarily after having a warm bath or shower.
Smokelyzer Awareness Tool
The organisation called CANSA provides a Smokelyzer breath analysis to pinpoint the number of carbon monoxide gas (an abnormal gas) is present in exhaled breath. The presence of carbon monoxide gas is common among tobacco smokers and people exposed to chemicals. It may also indicate the danger zones of smoking and also the impact of smoking on passive smokers.
If you ever think that you’re in danger of cancer, it is advised that you discuss this concern with your doctor. If you’re experiencing symptoms which concern you, it’s vital to get them investigated by a medical doctor or nurse as soon as possible. it’s also important to understand what screening options are available, especially if there’s a case history of cancer in your family.
