Screening tests are vital tools for catching cancer before symptoms appear, enabling early intervention. Rising awareness globally has led to healthcare professionals focusing more on preventive medicine. Therefore it is necessary that people actually know what a screening test is and how to choose the right cancer detection test, to support your health in the long run.
Cancer, like we know, can multiply uncontrollably across different organs—breast, lung, colon, cervix, prostate, and so on. In almost all cases early-stages are eerily asymptomatic, which is why relying on symptoms alone can be quite risky. However, there are subtle red flags one needs to be mindful about.
Pay Attention to Silent Symptoms:
These red flags alone don’t confirm cancer, because these are not symptoms. However, it is your body’s way of communicating that it needs more attention. Appropriate cancer screening tests will be able to make more sense.
| Breast Cancer (Women) (how to detect breast cancer at early stage) | |
| Mammography
|
Recommended from age 40–45 onwards. Frequency: every 1–2 years |
| Clinical breast exam | Physical examination by a doctor. Frequency: every 1–3 years from age 20, annually from age 40 |
| Cervical Cancer | |
| Pap smear or HPV DNA test (definitive test for early detection) |
Recommended from age 21 or after first sexual activity. Frequency: every 3 years. |
| Cervical cancer screening test | Proven to reduce incidence and mortality significantly. Usually done after an unsatisfactory pap smear result. |
| Prostate Cancer (Men) | |
| Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) | Recommended annually from age 45 onwards for most males. |
| Colonoscopy | Recommended every 10 years, or depending on patient profile with higher risk potential. |
| Colorectal Cancer | |
| PSA blood test | Recommended from the age of 50 for average-risk men; age 40–45 if family history. |
| Digital Rectal Exam | Done when the above test results need further assistance. Tests should be done under physician guidance, considering risks and benefits. |
| Oral & Lung Cancer (know about the early signs of lung cancer) | |
| Low-dose CT scan | Recommended for heavy smokers (≥30 pack-years) between ages 55–80 who quit fewer than 15 years ago. It is not routine, only for high-risk lung cancer groups. |
| Oral Examination | Done for tobacco/alcohol users; can be done yearly by dentist or doctor. |
| Skin & Other Cancers | |
| Annual skin check | Annual skin check for new moles or changing lesions by dermatologist; self-examinations monthly. |
| Full Body Cancer Test | Includes blood tests (CBC, liver/kidney panels, tumour markers), imaging (ultrasound, chest X-ray). Can be customised based on personal and family history. |
| Age Group | Recommended Screening Tests | Special Risk Factors |
| 20–30 years | Pap smear; clinical breast exam | STI history, early sexual activity |
| 31–40 years | Add HPV test; consider baseline PSA | Family history: breast, colon, prostate cancer |
| 41–50 years | Mammogram (40+), Pap + HPV, PSA (if family history) | Obesity, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle |
| 51–60 years | FOBT or colonoscopy; low-dose CT (if heavy smoker) | Smoking, alcohol use |
| 61+ years | Continue prior tests; more frequency if comorbidities exist | Hypertension, dyslipidaemia |
For individuals with a family history, earlier and more frequent testing may be needed—for example, BRCA mutation carriers for breast cancer or Lynch syndrome for colorectal cancer.
Also Read: Technologies for Breast Cancer Treatment
Screening tests are powerful—but prevention starts with lifestyle:
Obesity raises cancer risk. Obesity isn’t just a cosmetic issue, but it significantly raises the risk of several cancers. The reason lies in visceral fat accumulation which helps create triggers for tumour development in the body. Fat accumulation in the breast (post-menopause), endometrial region, kidney, pancreas, and colon triggers chronic inflammation and alters insulin and estrogen levels.
#Tip: Aim for gradual weight loss. Even a 5–10% reduction can make a measurable dent in your cancer risk.
Most of our problems can be solved with a good diet. Pulses, vegetables (spinach, broccoli), fruits (guava, papaya), millets reduce inflammation. The natural anti-oxidants and phytonutrients help ease oxidative stress.
#Tip: Fibre or roughage, binds to potential carcinogens in the GI tract. It also keeps your system clean with regular bowel movements.
These are linked to colorectal and prostate cancers, especially red meat, including packaged frozen meat. Similarly, saturated fats are known to promote inflammation and hormone-related cancers like prostate cancer.
#Tip: Make healthier swaps with fish or tofu. Rich in protein, leaner and healthier.
Both are major risk factors across multiple cancer types. Tobacco is linked to at least 15 different types of cancers, including oral, lung, oesophageal, and bladder cancers. In India, however, tobacco in the form of gutkha & paan, plus contraptions like vape and hookah are fueling more and more oral cancer cases, especially among young adults.
Alcohol on the other hand, spikes the risk of breast, liver, and oesophageal cancers. When alcohol is metabolised, it damages the DNA using a carcinogenic effect.
#Tip: Replace alcohol. Instead spend quality time with your family.
Regular exercise not only helps maintain weight (food for healthy weight journey), but it also regulates hormones (like insulin and estrogen), boosts immunity (tips to boost your immunity), and reduces inflammation. All of these benefits work together to lower cancer risk.
#Tip: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. This may include household chores as well.
People with outdoor occupations (construction workers, farmers) are particularly vulnerable. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ if you are outdoors for more than 15 minutes. Cover exposed skin with full-sleeved clothing, sunglasses, and hats.
#Tip: Avoid exposure to afternoon sun when the UV rays are strongest. This is especially helpful if you have a family history of skin cancer.
Chronic stress and poor sleep spikes up cortisol levels, creating a breeding ground for cancer cells. Establish a consistent sleep schedule of 7 to 8 hours per night. Reduce screen time before bed.
While regular screening tests and medical evaluations are crucial for early cancer detection, your everyday lifestyle choices play an equally powerful role in reducing your risk of cancer and supporting your body’s natural defences.
Also Read: Myths About Breast Cancer
Early detection is your greatest defence in the fight against cancer. A well-structured preventive screening checklist, tailored to your age, medical history, and risk factors, empowers you with timely action and peace of mind.
Consult a trusted healthcare partner and set up a proactive health check up inclusive of cancer tests. Combine this with a healthy lifestyle: adequate hydration, nutrient and fibre rich food, active living, no tobacco, and mindfulness. Screening isn’t expensive—it’s invaluable. Share this checklist with family and friends; it might just save a life.
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