Early detection can lead to successful cancer treatment. By conducting cancer screenings to identify cancer at its earliest stages and by educating the public about effective cancer prevention measures, this field is dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge needed to prevent and combat cancer.
Do Not Fear Cancer, But Fear Delay
The term “Cancer” often triggers anxiety due to a lack of awareness about its curability through early detection and preventable measures. Many uncertainties, fears, and misconceptions surround cancer, but we’re here to guide each and every one of you.
Cancer cases are on the rise, with common types almost doubling over the last two decades. Most prevalent among them are tobacco-related, cervical, and breast cancers. Fortunately, these are cancers that can be better managed through early detection and prevention.
As pioneers in cancer control efforts, we are committed to offering cancer screening services for seemingly healthy individuals. These initiatives have been an integral part of our services since our inception.
Breast Cancer-early Detection Plan
Early detection is the key to cure breast cancer
- Starting at age 20: Perform monthly Breast Self-Examinations (BSE) after periods.
- Age 30 to 39: Combine BSE with Clinical Breast Exams (CBE) every two years.
- At age 40: Continue BSE, undergo Annual Clinical Breast Exams, consider a baseline screening mammogram, and opt for breast ultrasound.
- Ages 40 to 49: Continue BSE, Annual Clinical Breast Exams, and repeat mammogram as advised by a healthcare professional.
- Upon reaching age 50: Keep up with BSE, Annual Clinical Breast Exams, baseline screening mammogram, and breast ultrasound.
- For women aged 50 and above, as well as postmenopausal women: Maintain BSE, Annual Clinical Breast Exams, and undergo repeat mammograms as recommended by medical guidance.
Adopt a healthy weight, embrace a low-fat diet, and engage in regular physical activity.
While this advice is applicable to all, women with heightened risk factors, like a positive family history, should undergo vigilant monitoring. Prompt medical attention is imperative for any detected breast lump.
Prevent Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer, attributed to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), is preventable.
All sexually active women should undergo regular screening tests like pap smear or HPV testing, or both, with periodic repetition (yearly or every two years) based on medical guidance.
Immediate treatment of identified abnormalities in these tests is crucial for cervical cancer prevention.
For women above 50 and those who are post-menopausal, a baseline pap smear is recommended if prior screening hasn’t been conducted. Regular gynecological/pelvic examinations are strongly advised.
HPV Vaccines: To prevent cervical cancer, vaccines are available and recommended for children aged 11 to 13, offering maximal benefit. Girls of any age before sexual activity can receive these vaccines, although they don’t guarantee full protection. Hence, adhering to recommended screening tests after becoming sexually active remains essential.