How can cancer be detected at early stages?
Screening has been found to be effective in early detection of cancer of the breast and uterine cervix, the two commonest cancers in women. Screening has also been found to be effective in prostate cancer, a common cancer of elderly males and. cancer of the large intestine (colon or rectal cancer). Screening for breast cancer is by breast self examination, annual clinical examination by a specialist and mammography (x-ray of the breasts done using special x-ray machines) starting at an appropriate age. Screening for cancer of the uterine cervix involves examination by a specialist and a test called the pap test which is a very simple test without any discomfort. Screening for prostate cancer involves examination by the specialist, a blood test for prostate specific antigen, and TRUS (transrectal ultrasound of the prostate). Screening for cancer of the large intestine involves examination of stool samples for present of blood (occult blood testing) and examination by a specialist.
