Cancer is a leading cause of mortality globally, with an estimate of over 18 million deaths reported every year. Detecting cancer in its onset stages plays a vital role in fighting this illness. However, most people choose to live in ignorance and delay or avoid cancer screening in Deerfield Beach. Without medical treatment, cancer may advance and become difficult to treat. However, the specialists at Life Imaging Fla offer various tests that help detect and prevent the spread of cancer.
What is cancer?
Cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in your body. There are different types of cancer, including:
- Breast cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Colon cancer
- Skin cancer
- Lung cancer
- Lymphoma
There are different signs and symptoms of cancer depending on the part of your body it occurs. General signs and symptoms include:
- Chronic muscle or joint pain
- Breathing difficulties
- Fatigue
- Unintended weight gain or loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Lump under the skin
- Unexplained bleeding
- Fever and sweating at night
- Discomfort after eating
Types of cancer screening tests
Early diagnosis of cancer improves your chances of successful treatment. Different types of tests offered at Life Imaging Fla include:
Colonoscopy and Sigmoidoscopy
These tests are used to diagnose colorectal cancer by detecting any changes or abnormalities in your colon and rectum. During this process, your doctor will insert a flexible tube called a colonoscope into your rectum. This tool has a tiny camera that allows your doctor to see the inside of the large intestines.
Mammography
Your doctor may recommend a mammogram to screen for abnormal cells in your breasts or for diagnostic purposes. Two hard surfaces help spread your breast tissues, and your specialist may use an X-ray to get images that help in the examination of cancer signs.
Low-dose helical computed tomography
This painless and non-invasive test is used to screen for lung cancer. Before the examination, your doctor may require you to change into an exam gown. During scanning, your specialist will ask you to lie on your back as the table moves through the center of a machine. You may need to hold your breath briefly to create a clear image of your lungs.
Pap smear test
A pap smear is a procedure used to detect cervical cancer in women. You will lie down on a flat surface during the process, and stirrups may be used to support your heels. Your doctor will use a speculum to hold the walls of your vagina apart for effective examination of the cervix. You may experience slight discomfort. Your specialist will then obtain cervical cells using a spatula.
Transvaginal ultrasound
This is an internal examination that allows your doctor to get images of organs in your pelvic region, such as fallopian tubes and uterus. Before this test, you may need to empty your bladder or have a full bladder. Your specialist will insert a transducer inside your vagina and carefully move the device to bring different areas into focus. This device portrays images on a monitor that enables your doctor to detect any abnormalities in your organs, including ovarian cysts.
Treatment options may differ depending on the type and stage of cancer. Reserve a session with your doctor at Life Imaging Fla to discuss the benefits and risks of each treatment method to determine what is effective for you.