5 ROUTINE HEALTH TESTS THAT CAN HELP CATCH CANCER EARLY

When it comes to cancer, the earlier it is detected, the better the chance of successful treatment. Yet many people delay or skip routine screenings, often because they feel healthy or fear bad news. Doctors say a few simple, routine health tests can spot warning signs years before symptoms appear.

“While it is true that no single test exists that can identify all forms of cancer, regular, routine screenings can identify certain forms of cancer, even when symptoms have yet to appear. Because the effectiveness of screenings can differ depending on age, sex, family cancer history, and even personal risk factors, screening recommendations tend to vary greatly,” said Dr Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Director, Surgical Oncology, CK Birla Hospital.

Here are five essential tests that can help detect cancer early and save lives.

Mammogram

Mammography is one of the most effective methods for the early detection of breast cancer. Women in India are generally advised to begin receiving mammograms on an annual basis after they have reached the age of 45. Specialized breast X-rays have the potential to uncover signs of breast cancer long before a lump can be felt. “In addition to mammograms, women are recommended to perform monthly breast self-examinations and to receive clinical breast exams every six to twelve months,” said Dr Malhotra.

As a result of the dense breast tissue present in younger women, test accuracy is reduced, and screening is often delayed. “If a woman has a history of breast cancer in her family or if she is at a greater risk for a genetic cause, earlier screening may be necessary through the use of ultrasound or MRI, as directed by a physician,” he added.

Pap smear and HPV screening

The Pap smear is used for the early detection of cellular changes in the cervix that could potentially develop into cancer. It is generally advised to start at the age of 25 years, with screening performed every three to five years. HPV screening is often done in conjunction with Pap smears because HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer.

Although screening can help with early diagnosis, the best preventive strategy is the HPV vaccine.

Ultrasound and CA-125

Ovarian cancer is a hard disease to diagnose in its early stages because the symptoms are not specific. “Screening is not generally recommended for the general population, but women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer or women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations can be screened,” said Dr Malhotra.

This is generally done by ultrasound or transvaginal scan, and the CA-125 blood test.

Also read: Why One in Three Cancer Deaths in Delhi Are Among People Under 44

Colonoscopy and fecal tests

Screening for colorectal cancer is especially important in people with a family history, a diet rich in red meat and low in fiber, or inherited syndromes like familial adenomatous polyposis or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer.

Colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and fecal occult blood tests are some methods used for screening. Removing precancerous polyps can prevent the development of cancer.

Low-dose CT scan

Low-dose CT scans are being developed as screening tools for selected individuals at high risk, especially chronic smokers. These scans can identify small lung nodules before symptoms occur and should only be done under medical supervision.

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2026-02-03T11:01:27Z