Early Diagnosis Can Be Life-Saving: Find out Which Cancer Screening Tests are Most Essential
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Cancer screening is vital in preventive healthcare and has significantly lowered death rates by finding disease at an early, more treatable stage. Understanding how screening works and following recommended schedules can help people protect their health.
Cervical Cancer Screening: Why it’s important?
Cervical cancer most commonly develops after a long-lasting infection with certain high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is widespread, and in most cases, the immune system clears the virus naturally. However, some infections may remain in the body for years without any noticeable symptoms, almost 90% of sexually active women will acquire a genital HPV infection during their lifetime. For this reason, regular screening is the most effective way to identify early abnormal cell changes before they progress to cancer.
Pap Smear and HPV Test (Co-testing)
Pap smear test involves taking cells from the cervix, the lower end of the uterus where it connects to the vagina. The cells will then be analyzed to detect unusual changes that may progress to cancer if not treated. The procedure is brief and typically performed during a regular gynecological check-up.
HPV test is usually performed at the same time using the same sample. This test detects high-risk HPV types that are known to increase the risk of cervical cancer.
Importantly, cervical screening can also be used detect precancerous cell changes early, allowing treatment that may stop cervical cancer from developing altogether.
Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines (RTCOG guideline 2025)
Ages < 25 years: cervical cancer screening is typically advised in high-risk women (HIV infection, multiple partners or sexually transmitted infection.
Ages 25 years: Multiple screening approaches may be recommended, including:
HPV testing on its own every five years
Pap smear screening every two years
Co-testing with both Pap and HPV tests every five years
Age 65 years and above: Some individuals may be able to discontinue screening if they have a history of normal test results and no prior cervical precancer at a severe stage. This choice should always be made in discussion with a healthcare professional.
When screening for cervical cancer shows unexpected findings, further assessment may be needed. This could involve repeat testing, a colposcopy (examination of the cervix under a magnifying scope), or a biopsy. Though abnormal findings can be worrying, they tend to identify changes before cancer forms, enabling prompt treatment and close follow-up.
Other Recommended Cancer Screenings
Based on age, lifestyle, and individual risk factors, additional screenings may be advised. Your doctor can determine the most appropriate screening tests.
Breast cancer: For individuals at average risk, screening mammography with tomosynthesis is recommended starting at age 40 years. However, breast health evaluation should begin earlier, from around age 25 years, through regular clinical encounters and promotion of breast awareness to facilitate early recognition of abnormal changes.
Lung cancer: Lung cancer screening should be performed using low-dose CT (LDCT), not chest X-ray. It is recommended for individuals aged more than 50 years with a smoking history of more than 20 pack-years. However, screening may also be considered on a case-by-case basis in selected high-risk individuals after individualized risk assessment.
Colorectal cancer: For individuals at average risk, colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is recommended starting at age 45 years. Several screening modalities are available, including colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, stool-based tests (FIT or mt-sDNA), and CT colonography. However, for individuals at increased risk, such as those with a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer, screening should begin earlier, at age 40 years or 10 years before the age at diagnosis of the affected relative, whichever comes first. In these higher-risk individuals, colonoscopy is the preferred screening modality.
Anal Cancer: Anal cancer is relatively uncommon and is not part of routine screening for the general population. However, because it is strongly associated with HPV infection, similar to cervical cancer, individuals at increased risk, such as those with compromised immune systems (e.g., HIV infection) or a history of HPV-related disease, may require closer monitoring. Symptoms such as bleeding, pain, itching, or a palpable lump should always be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Regular Health Screening Helps Early Detection
During routine appointments with a gynecologist, you can check whether your screenings are up to date, review recommended vaccines, and discuss any new health concerns. Keeping health records organized can help reduce missed follow-ups and make sure treatment is received on time.
When screening is done regularly and abnormal results are addressed early, cervical cancer can often be avoided. Taking action today plays an important role in protecting health in the years ahead.
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