While we are making significant strides in treating cancer, the fact is that no one is immune, and that is why regular cancer screenings are so important.
Regular screenings are recommended for a number of the most common forms of cancer, and they can be critical in detecting cancers at earlier stages, thus improving the possibilities for treatment.
“We know the best way to treat cancer is to actually diagnose cancer earlier,” says Kai Tsao, MD, a cancer specialist who is Medical Director of the Ruttenberg Treatment Center at The Tisch Cancer Center at Mount Sinai, and Associate Professor of Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
One more important point: Cancer screenings are typically recommended by your primary care physician. So now that many may have delayed seeking medical dare during the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be especially important to talk with your doctor about these screenings.
In this Q&A, Dr. Tsao explains what you need to know about cancer screenings and some of the things to discuss with your doctor.
Why are cancer screenings important?
The earlier we find cancer, the better chance we have for more effective treatment, leading to better outcomes for patients. We have witnessed, with the implementation of cancer screenings for at-risk populations, a significant decrease in cancer deaths over the past decades. Without appropriate screening, patients will only begin appropriate treatments when they begin to experience symptoms, and by then a higher percentage of these diagnoses will be more advanced cancer. With effective screening, we are seeing what we call a “stage migration,” with more patients being diagnosed in early stages of disease rather than more advanced cancer.
How can I learn more about screenings?
Education campaigns and resource groups supported by the government and philanthropy (such as the American Cancer Society) have led the effort in promoting cancer screening to the general public. Importantly, patients can learn about screenings by engaging their primary care physician to discuss what type of testing may be appropriate.
What if I am still concerned about the safety of visiting the doctor during this pandemic?
At the Ruttenberg Treatment Center at The Mount Sinai Hospital, we have developed a number of measures to mitigate COVID-19 risk for patients, including both remote and onsite screening for all patients and visitors. We have a strict visitor policy to minimize the volume of visitors on site. We also require everyone, including our staff, to wear a mask at all times, and to maintain appropriate social distance. Similar measures have been implemented throughout the hospital. Patients should feel comfortable while receiving their health care here at The Mount Sinai Hospital.
How do I know which cancer tests I need?
A number of guidelines, based on the type of cancer, have been accepted as a standard to guide cancer screening. Currently, most practitioners rely on the recommendations of the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force, an independent panel of national experts in primary care, disease prevention, and evidence-based medicine. However, appropriate cancer screening requires a conversation with your doctor who can gather the most accurate information and consider a number of other personal factors, such as your age, prior medical history, family history of cancer, and possible genetic test information. It’s important to note that testing recommendations can change over time.
What are some of the most common cancer screenings?
In the United States, the most common cancer screenings that have been established are for breast cancer (breast exam and digital mammography), cervical cancer (Pap smear and HPV testing), colorectal cancer (stool testing and colonoscopy), lung cancer (Computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest), and prostate cancer (prostate exam and PSA). There are many factors that can change the timing and frequency of cancer screening beyond the established guidelines. For example, having a family history of prostate or breast cancer may require appropriate genetic counseling or testing, and earlier or more frequent cancer screening. It is important to know that every decision for cancer screening should be a shared one, between the patient and the doctor, to review the risk and benefit of the agreed approach.
People generally do not like to talk about cancer. What overall advice would you offer?
First, it is important to understand that cancer can occur in any age group, and maintaining routine health checkups with your primary care physician is essential. During such visits, use this opportunity to discuss whether cancer screening is appropriate for you. This is particularly important now given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, as delayed care will lead to worse outcomes. So make sure you continue to communicate with your primary care provider. That could be a telephone call, a video visit, or an office visit. That will ensure you continue to get the appropriate care to maintain your health.