When it comes to treating cancer, the earlier the cancer can be found, the better. The development of improved screening tests for various types of cancer means that physicians can now identify and diagnose cancer at an earlier stage, many times before any symptoms are present. With all types of cancer, early detection and diagnosis can make a big difference and result in improved outcomes.
Recommended Cancer Screening Tests
Skin Cancer: Screening for skin cancer involves checking your skin and any moles for changes that
could be signs of cancer. An annual skin check by a dermatologist or your regular physician is recommended for those with a family history of skin cancer.
Breast Cancer: In addition to monthly self-examinations, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that, starting at age 40, all women should have annual screening mammograms. Talk to your doctor about what is right for you, based on your own family health history and your risk factors.
Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer should start at age 50 and be done every 10 years – unless recommended more often by your doctor – up until age 75. This type of screening not only detects cancer early, but, in many cases, it can prevent cancer from developing by identifying and removing polyps, which are abnormal, precancerous growths within the colon.
Lung Cancer: Low Dose CT scanning is recommended for some people who are at a higher risk for lung cancer. This group includes adults, ages 55 to 80, who have a 30 pack-year smoking history and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. To determine a pack-
year score, multiply the number of packs smoked per day by the number of years smoked. So, if you smoked two packs a day for 20 years, your pack-year score would be 40.
Oral Cancer: Screening for oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer may be done during a routine check-up by a dentist or medical doctor. The exam will include looking for lesions or abnormal-looking areas in the mouth and throat. 75 percent of all head and neck cancers begin in the oral cavity.
Prostate Cancer: The PSA test is used to screen men for prostate cancer. However, it is not clear if the benefits of testing all men outweigh the risks, such as finding and treating slow-growing cancers that do not require treatment. It is important to talk with your doctor about the risks and potential benefits based on your personal and family history.
Cervical Cancer: An annual Pap test is advised for all women, beginning at age 21. Women from 21 to 29 should have a Pap test every three years.
Beginning at age 30, ACS recommends a Pap test combined with human papillomavirus (HPV) testing every five years. Testing should continue until the age of 65.
A Vaccine that Prevents Cancer
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), all children ages 11 to 12 years old should be vaccinated against the human papillomavirus, which causes several types of cancer, including:
• cancers of the cervix, vagina, and vulva in women
• cancers of the penis in men
• cancers of the anus
• cancers of the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils (oropharynx), in both women and men
The HPV vaccine protects against many of these cancers caused by HPV infection. Most people with HPV never develop symptoms or health problems and the vast majority of HPV infections go away by themselves within two years. However, some HPV infections last longer and can cause certain cancers and other diseases. Getting your child vaccinated before they become sexually active can prevent over 90 percent of these cancers.
World-Class Cancer Treatment Close to Home
Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) has put together a network of expert, board-certified physicians who bring world‐class cancer treatments to local communities, both large and small, across the state. With nearly 100 locations, FCS is the largest independent oncology/hematology group in the United States. That status puts the practice on the leading edge of clinical trial research and gives FCS physicians access to the newest, most innovative treatments.
Florida Cancer Specialists treats patients with all types of cancer, and offers a number of services, such as an in-house specialty pharmacy, an in-house pathology lab and financial counselors at every location, all to deliver the most advanced and personalized care in your local community.
Bonita Springs
9776 Bonita Beach Rd SE,
Suite 201A
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Naples – Goodlette
1100 Goodlette Road
Naples, FL 34102
Naples – Napa Ridge
6360 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 201
Naples, FL 34119
Naples – Sierra Meadows
8350 Sierra Meadows Blvd
Naples, FL 34114
Naples West
681 4th Ave North
Naples, FL 34102
For more information, visit FLCancer.com