Cancer Checks

Its Cancer Awareness  month, 

Which means it is a great time for us to think about keeping oursleves healthy by scheduling the recommended Cancer Checks. The following are recommended procedures for women.  Make sure to read them and schedule the appointments you need to keep yourself healthy, happy, and Beautiful! 

Pap Smear for Cervical Cancer

A Pap smear is a highly effective test that screens for cervical cancer in women. The test involves the collecting of cells from the cervix to be examined under a microscope. It is not a diagnostic test, however. That means that if any abnormalities are discovered, more testing will be needed to make a formal diagnosis.

Pelvic Exam for Gynecologic Cancers

A regular pelvic exam is necessary for all women. A pelvic exam is one of the first steps in diagnosing several conditions such as gynecologic cancers and sexually transmitted diseases. How often a woman needs a pelvic exam varies depending on her risk factors for certain conditions and previous exam findings. A pelvic exam is often accompanied by the Pap smear.

Mammogram for Breast Cancer

Women who are over 40 or at high risk for developing breast cancer need to have a regular mammogram. A screening mammogram is able to detect breast abnormalities that could signal breast cancer. Aside from regular mammograms, women of all ages should perform monthly breast self exams to check for abnormalities.

Colonoscopy or Other Recommended Colon Cancer Screening Test

Several tests are available to screen for colon cancer. Your doctor will recommend a colon cancer screening test based on your colon cancer risk factors, age and general health. Common examples of colon cancer screening tests include colonoscopy and fecal occult blood tests.

Colon cancer screening normally begins for men and women who are over 50. However, those who are at an increased risk for the disease may begin screening earlier.

Clinical Skin Exam for Skin Cancer

You should check your skin for abnormalities every month at home. Each year, however, you should have a clinical skin exam. During a clinical skin exam, a doctor visually