HOUSE CALL: CANCER SCREENING

Dr Mariana Browne joins us now in our House Call segment, to talk about Cancer Screening.

Transcript

00:00This segment is brought to you by Superfarm, your prescription of trust.

00:14Cancer has affected many of our lives, whether personally or through loved ones.

00:21But did you know that early detection with screening can save many lives?

00:26Tonight, let's discuss the importance of cancer screening.

00:30Specifically, colon, prostate, breast, and cervical.

00:35Let's break down the screening for these four common cancers.

00:40Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

00:44Screening for colon cancer should begin at the age of 45.

00:48However, if you have a first degree relative, then screening can begin as early as 40

00:53or 10 years before the age of the youngest relative's diagnosis.

00:58Colon cancer screening can be visual, with the use of a test known as a colonoscopy, or stool-based,

01:06where we look for hidden blood within the stool, also known as a fecal immunohistochemistry test, or FIT.

01:14Now, let's talk about prostate cancer screening.

01:18A screening test that all men above the age of 40 should undergo.

01:22Screening for prostate cancer involves a blood test known as PSA, or prostate-specific antigen.

01:29This blood test is often paired with a digital rectal examination.

01:33And in this case, digital means finger.

01:38A family history of prostate cancer in a first degree relative puts you at increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

01:46The age of screening still remains at 40.

01:49Let's talk about breast cancer.

01:52Breast cancer screening is essential and vital for women.

01:56Mammograms, which are x-rays of the breast, are an effective and efficient tool to help screen for breast cancer.

02:03Women, 40 years and older, should start having their mammograms done every 1 to 2 years.

02:11And sometimes, a mammogram is paired with a breast ultrasound to best visualize the breast tissue.

02:18Women who have a first degree relative of breast cancer may need to undergo breast cancer screening earlier.

02:24Lastly, cervical cancer screening is done through a test known as a pap smear, which checks for abnormal cells of the cervix.

02:34Women should start cervical cancer screening at the age of 21 and do pap smears every 2 years until the age of 65.

02:44In some countries above the age of 30, a pap smear is also paired with a HPV test.

02:51HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer.

02:56Early detection is key for these cancers.

02:59Remember, the earlier you catch them, the easier it is to treat.

03:04And the higher the chance of survival.

03:06Remember, these screenings save lives.

03:10It's Dr. Brown for TV6 House Call.

03:12This segment was brought to you by Superfarm, your prescription of trust.

03:21Ourium, yourtor, your