Friday, November 30, 2012

Cancer Screening Houston And Facts About It

By Lucile Jacobs


It normally is possible to detect the existence of cancerous growths way before they get to cause any noticeable symptoms. It is this process of detection that is called screening. In considering cancer screening Houston residents need to understand the essence of the procedure. It very much helps in early treatment of malignant growths before they become difficult to manage.

There are risks and benefits that are associated with the procedure. For once, it is controversial in instances when it is not clear if the screenings actually lead to saving of lives. There may be the occurrence of false positive results or even invasive procedures. Controversies come about because it is unclear whether the advantages of these tests are bigger than the risks that come about as a result of subsequent treatments.

The tests that can be done in Houston are varied. There is the use of physical examination and patient history. In this, the overall health history of the individual is checked, with examination of lumps or any other forms of growth checked. Previous illnesses and health habits of the individuals are checked to ascertain the possibility of there being any growths. This form of tests are helpful but may not be fully effective, which explains why they are not commonly used.

Laboratory tests are the most effective in cancer detection. The tests are done through the use of samples of blood, urine or various tissues taken from the body. The tests make use of antibodies produced in reaction to cancerous cells. On the other hand, imaging techniques are also useful. They involve taking of pictures using x rays of the organs intended.

Certain forms of cancerous growths bring about mutations of cells in the body. Consequently, genetic tests may also be used for examination of the presence of malignant growths. In as much as the screenings are very vital, there are risks that may come with them. Thus prior to going for the procedure or before choosing any method, it is vital to know the different implications that they come with.

For the breasts, mammograms are the best tools for early detection of breast cancers. These are pictures of breasts taken with x-rays. Mammograms should be done with the advice of experts who determine the suitability of the individuals to undergo the procedure.

Pap smear is used in detection of cervical cancers. In this, samples are extracted from the cervix. The samples are tested for the presence of the human papillomavirus that poses a great risk when it comes to cancerous growths of the cervix. The pap smear is advisable for women who are just starting to become sexually active or those that have attained the age of twenty one, whichever comes first. Colon and rectum tests are also available for testing cancers in these places.

In going for cancer screening Houston residents may need to talk with their doctors on the benefits and harms of the procedure. The doctors also advice on all the test procedures and their suitability for the individual. After that, the individuals decide whether to undergo the procedure or not.




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