What is cancer screening?
Cancer screening is an exam that checks your body for cancer before you display any
symptoms. This allows Dr. Khan to catch it while it’s still small, easier to treat, and before it
spreads.
Cancer screenings include a physical exam, laboratory tests, diagnostic imaging, and
genetic tests.
Regular cancer screenings could save your life. Annual physicals are an excellent
opportunity to discuss your concerns with Dr. Khan. She talks through what cancers you may be at
risk of and what your screening schedule should look like.
Who should have cancer screening?
Not every person needs screening for every type of cancer. Some screenings are only
necessary if you are high risk for developing certain cancers. Dr. Khan considers you high risk if
you’ve experienced any of the following:
- A personal or family history of cancer
- Exposure to carcinogens like toxic chemicals or tobacco smoke
- An unexplained blood clot
- Gene mutations linked to cancer
- Older age
Millennium Park Medical Associates uses an annual physical and your medical history to
determine your risk levels. It’s important to note that a risk factor doesn’t mean you’ll get
cancer, just as having no risk factors can’t guarantee you’ll never get it.
What do cancer screenings test for?
Millennium Park Medical Associates uses cancer screenings to catch the early warning signs
that you may have cancer or be at risk of developing it. Some of the cancers they screen for
include:
- Breast cancer
- Colon and rectal cancer and polyps
- Cervical cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
Dr. Khan discusses the pros and cons of each screening with you and answers your questions
so you can make an informed decision about whether to get them.
How can I lower my risk of cancer?
Personal behaviors often contribute to someone’s risk of developing cancer. Some things
you can do to lower your chances of developing it include:
- Eat a healthy diet
- Get to and maintain a healthy weight
- Wear sunscreen
- Stay away from tobacco in all forms
- Reduce your alcohol intake or cut it out completely
- Take up regular exercise
- Be aware of your family medical history
A cancer diagnosis can be frightening, but catching it early can significantly improve
your chances of successfully fighting it.
When you partner with Millennium Park Medical Associates, you receive comprehensive
support every step of the way. Make an appointment today online or over the phone.
