Where do you get tested for cancer? What blood test should be taken to determine oncology

SM Clinic

Timely diagnosis plays a decisive role in the treatment of oncological (cancerous) pathologies. To accurately establish the presence of cancer, a set of diagnostic measures is needed. However, elementary tests of blood, feces or urine, which can be taken at any laboratory, often warn of dangerous changes in the body. If there are deviations in the indicators, the doctor will develop an individual examination program and determine which tests to take for oncology in order to dispel or confirm suspicions.

Analysis of urine

Cancer of the urinary system manifests itself as blood in the urine. Urine may also contain ketone bodies, which indicate tissue breakdown. However, these symptoms also accompany diseases that are not associated with oncology, for example, they indicate the presence of stones in the bladder or kidneys, diabetes mellitus.

For the diagnosis of other types of cancer, urinalysis is not informative. It cannot be used to judge the presence of oncological diseases, however, deviations from the norm indicate health problems. If the deviations are serious and confirmed by the results of other basic tests, then this is an occasion to conduct special tests to determine cancer.

The exception is multiple myeloma, in which a specific Bens-Jones protein is determined in the urine.

For research, morning urine is collected in a sterile container, which can be purchased at a pharmacy. You must first take a shower.

Fecal analysis

Blood can also be contained in the feces, and it is almost impossible to visually notice it. Laboratory analysis will help to identify its presence.

The presence of blood in the stool is a sign of bowel cancer (most often the colon), but it is also a symptom of many benign gastrointestinal diseases. Polyps in the intestines can bleed. Moreover, it should be remembered that polyps tend to degenerate into a malignant tumor. In any case, the presence of blood in the feces is a reason to undergo a deeper diagnosis, to take tests to detect cancer.

Feces are also collected in a sterile container in the morning.

What blood test shows oncology

Many patients are convinced that it is possible to determine cancer by a blood test. In fact, there are several types of this diagnostic procedure, starting with a general analysis and ending with an analysis for tumor markers. There are the following types of cancer diagnostics by blood test with varying degrees of information content:

• general analysis;
• biochemical analysis;
• blood clotting test;
• immunological blood test (oncomarkers).

Even if the oncological disease has not yet manifested itself as painful symptoms, negative changes are already occurring in the body, which can be recorded by a blood test. When a malignant tumor grows, it destroys healthy cells that serve to grow the body and releases toxic substances. These changes are noticeable even with a complete blood count, but they can also be a sign of dozens of diseases that are not associated with cancer.

The most informative is the analysis for oncomarkers - specific substances that are released into the blood as a result of the vital activity of tumor cells. However, given that tumor markers are found in the body of any person, and their number increases with inflammation, this analysis does not 100% prove the presence of cancer. It becomes only an excuse to take more reliable tests to determine oncology.

Can a general blood test show cancer?

This analysis does not provide complete information about the presence of a tumor in the body. However, this is one of the basic tests that helps to identify cancer at an early stage, when it does not yet show symptoms. Therefore, if you determine which tests to pass to check for cancer, then you need to start with it.

The following changes in the structure of the blood may indicate malignant processes in the body:

• decrease in the number of lymphocytes;
• increase or decrease in the number of leukocytes;
• decrease in hemoglobin;
• low platelets;
• increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR);
• an increase in the number of neutrophils;
• the presence of immature blood cells.

If a patient, in the presence of one or several of the listed symptoms, experiences weakness, quickly gets tired, loses appetite and weight, it is necessary to undergo a more detailed examination.

Blood is taken on an empty stomach or at least 4 hours after a meal. The fence is carried out from the finger.

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Blood chemistry

The method detects abnormalities that may be a sign of cancer. It should be borne in mind that the same changes are characteristic of many non-oncological diseases, so it is impossible to interpret the results unambiguously.

The doctor analyzes the following indicators:

• total protein. Cancer cells feed on protein, and if the patient has no appetite, then its volume is significantly reduced. In some cancers, the amount of protein, on the contrary, increases.
• Urea, creatinine. Their increase is a sign of poor kidney function or intoxication, in which the protein in the body actively breaks down.
• Sugar. Many malignant tumors (sarcoma, cancer of the lung, liver, uterus, breast) are accompanied by signs of diabetes mellitus with changes in blood sugar levels, since the body does not produce insulin well.
• Bilirubin. An increase in its volume may be a symptom of malignant liver damage.
• Enzymes ALT, AST. An increased volume is evidence of a possible liver tumor.
• Alkaline phosphatase. Another enzyme, the increase of which can be a sign of malignant changes in the bones and bone tissue, gallbladder, liver, ovaries, uterus.
• Cholesterol. With a significant decrease in volume, a suspicion of liver cancer or metastases to this organ is possible.

Blood sampling is carried out from a vein. You need to give it up on an empty stomach.

Blood clotting tests

In oncological diseases, blood clotting becomes higher, and blood clots can form in large and small vessels (up to capillaries). If the results of the analysis show these abnormalities, further examination for oncology will be required.

Blood for this analysis is also taken from a vein.

Immunological blood test: tumor markers

If we talk about what tests show oncology, then this examination is quite informative and allows you to determine the presence of cancer. It is also used to detect relapses after treatment.

Tumor markers are special types of protein, enzymes or protein breakdown products. They are released either by the tissue of a malignant neoplasm, or by healthy tissues in response to cancer cells. Now the existence of more than 200 of their species has been scientifically proven.

In a small amount, tumor markers are also found in the body of a healthy person, their volume moderately increases, for example, with a cold, as well as in women during pregnancy, in men with prostate adenoma. However, the appearance in a large volume of certain specific species is characteristic of certain tumors. For example, tumor markers CEA and CA-15-3 can signal breast cancer, and CA 125 and HE-4 can signal ovarian cancer. To obtain the most objective result, it is recommended to take an analysis for several tumor markers.

By increasing the level of one or another oncomarker, it is possible to determine which organ or system is affected by the tumor. Also, this analysis is able to show that a person is at risk of developing cancer. For example, in men, an increase in the oncomarker PSA becomes a harbinger of prostate cancer.

Immunological analysis is taken on an empty stomach, blood is taken from a vein. Tumor markers are also determined by urinalysis.

Cytological examination

This is the most informative type of laboratory examination, which accurately determines the presence or absence of malignant cells.

The analysis consists in taking a tiny piece of tissue in which the presence of a cancerous tumor is suspected, with further examination under a microscope. Modern endoscopic technologies make it possible to take biomaterial from any organ - skin, liver, lungs, bone marrow, lymph nodes.

Cytology studies the cellular structure and functions. The cells of a cancerous tumor differ significantly from the cells of healthy tissues, therefore, in a laboratory study, it is possible to accurately determine the malignancy of a neoplasm.

The following biomaterials are used for cytological examination:

• prints from the skin, mucous membranes;
• liquids in the form of urine, sputum;
• swabs from internal organs obtained during endoscopy;
• tissue samples obtained by puncture with a fine needle.

This diagnostic method is used for preventive examinations, diagnosis clarification, treatment planning and monitoring, to detect relapses. It is simple, safe for the patient, and results can be obtained within a day.

Instrumental diagnostics

If a cancer is suspected or a malignant neoplasm is detected, the patient needs to undergo more detailed examinations to determine the location of the tumor, its volume, the degree of damage to other organs and systems (the presence of metastases), and also to develop an effective treatment program. For this, a set of instrumental examinations is used. It includes various types of diagnostics - depending on the suspicion of a particular disease.

Modern clinics offer the following types of instrumental examinations:

• magnetic resonance imaging (with or without a contrast agent);
• computed tomography (with and without the use of a contrast x-ray agent);
• plain radiography in frontal and lateral projection;
• contrast radiography (irrigography, hysterosalpingography);
• ultrasound examination with dopplerography;
• endoscopic examination (fibrogastroscopy, colonoscopy, bronchoscopy);
• radionuclide diagnostics (scintigraphy and positron emission tomography combined with computer tomography).

These types of examinations allow to determine cancer diseases with high accuracy.

Examinations for suspected cancer at the oncological center "SM-Clinic"

What specific blood test does a person need to pass for the early detection of oncology? This question worries a lot of people who are worried about their own health. In general, timely diagnosis allows you to start treatment of malignant tumors without delay. The initial stages of cancer are no longer considered as a sentence.

To a large extent, the high mortality from this type of pathology is due, first of all, to late seeking help.

About cancer

In the first or second stage, the patient usually has a very high chance of recovering. Even with the third today, a person is often put on his feet. However, the 4th is already very serious. Here, the patient is prescribed only symptomatic therapy, since metastases that have spread throughout the body begin to actively destroy it.

Actually, for this reason, preventive examinations are largely a guarantee of a cure, as they help to detect oncology at the first stages of development.

The risk group includes doctors who have:

• there were cases of cancer in the family;
• have bad habits (smoking, alcoholism);
• tissues and organs have been exposed to radiation or toxic effects in the past;
• revealed immunodeficiency.

For the rest of the fairer sex, the risk increases after 55 years.

Signs of the onset of oncology are, depending on its type, the following symptoms:

• long-term non-healing wounds;
• discomfort when swallowing;
• bloody and other uncharacteristic discharges in the urine or feces;
• moles that began to grow rapidly and changed their color;
• sudden and significant weight loss;
• any swelling, dense lumps under the skin;
• visible deformities of the genitals, face, breast, neck;
• incurable dry cough;
• noticeable shortness of breath and hoarseness.

In particular, brain damage is often indicated by the appearance of some smell (burnt or citrus), from which the patient cannot get rid of for weeks.

Indicate the presence of oncology in a state, in principle, even the simplest general blood test. It is done quickly and is very inexpensive. However, only a doctor should interpret its results.

By the way, it is advised to take it regularly - once a year. If there are serious suspicions, the doctor will recommend a number of other specialized examinations.

What signs in the analyzes indicate cancer

The problem is indicated, first of all, by the presence of a relatively small number of platelets in the patient's blood and a noticeable increase in the number of leukocytes. In this case, the ESR will be more than 30. However, it is possible to confirm the assumption only on the condition that the described state remains unchanged for several months.

Another indication of oncology is the growth of alkaline phosphatase. A drop in cholesterol makes it possible to suspect a pathology specifically of the liver.

At the same time, a blood test is not able to accurately identify the localization of the tumor. This requires other instrumental studies. So, cancer

• the esophagus and stomach are detected during fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy;
• intestines are revealed by colonoscopy;
• lungs - bronchoscopy;
• cervix - smear examination, etc.

tumor markers

Today, immunological diagnostics is gaining more and more popularity. Here, the blood taken for analysis is studied for the detection of antigens produced by the body in response to the formation of tumors. In a healthy person, they are contained in a minimal amount or absent altogether. Accordingly, an increase in the indicator indicates oncology.

Scientists have identified more than 300 types of proteins, hormones and enzymes, the production of which in the body increases with cancer. At the same time, each marker allows you to confirm only the presence of a certain type of tumor. Often such tests are not informative (especially in the early stages). Their more universal varieties are only able to indicate the development of the process and are not able to accurately identify the place of its localization.

For example, prostate cancer is diagnosed by the PSA antigen. At the same time, it is often produced in large volumes:

• in older men due to age-related changes;
• with infectious diseases;
• after some procedures.

The CEA antigen (cancer-embryonic) confirms the growth of the neoplasm in:

• lungs;
• large intestine;
• mammary gland.

The AFP protein is produced by malignant tumors that affect:

• testicles;
• liver.

Besides:

• melanoma signals itself with the S-100 protein;
• pancreatic disease is indicated by CA 19-9;
• cancer of the stomach, lung, breast is detected by CA 72-4;
• the thyroid gland during degeneration begins to produce large amounts of calcitonin.

All forms of cancer have their own unique antigens:

• small cell;
• carcinoma;
• leukemia;
• non-small cell;
• squamous.

With all this, it is not necessary to talk about the 100% accuracy of the oncomarker. For this reason, they are handed over only after the discovery of the main characteristic symptoms and other types of research. For the most part, they are used to track the progression of the disease, the effectiveness of therapeutic measures, etc.

What is a screening program?

Screening is a mass survey of the population aimed at identifying risk groups for a particular disease, or its presence in the early stages - a widespread practice in the world. This approach is widespread in the world and is especially important in cases where timely diagnosis of the disease is crucial for successful treatment, for example, in oncology.

Currently, the effectiveness of screening programs for the early detection of breast, ovarian and prostate cancer has been scientifically confirmed. Diagnosis is carried out using laboratory blood tests of people at risk. In relation to these diseases, these are women of all ages and men over 40 years of age.

Who runs the screening program?

Department of Health of the city of Moscow and the Moscow Clinical Research Center named after. S.A. Loginova DZM.

When?

Where is the screening program carried out?

You can donate blood for analysis in some city clinics from 8.00 to 14.00.

Medical organizations of the DZM have been holding such events for several years now, deploying mobile medical stations in various districts of the city and in places of public events. For example, in March of this year, a similar screening was already carried out in city clinics. Over 16,000 people were examined over two days, and last fall, a large-scale flu vaccination campaign was carried out near metro stations and in My Documents public service centers (at that time, almost 240,000 citizens were vaccinated at mobile points).

Unfortunately, not all residents of the capital find time to visit the clinic and preventive health checks. Therefore, the Moscow Health Department is doing everything possible to create the most convenient conditions for the residents of the capital for preventive examinations.

Who can take tests?

All citizens with permanent registration in the city of Moscow are invited to undergo a FREE diagnosis for the most common oncological diseases every Saturday from July 7 to September 22

What tests can be done?

Women of any age (over 18) can have a blood test for predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer (BRCA1, BRCA2). Men over 40 years of age - a PSA test (PSA) for signs of prostate cancer (prostate).

Why do it?

Breast cancer, ovarian cancer in women and prostate cancer in men are among the most common cancers. At the same time, the detection of these types of cancer at the initial stage makes it possible to completely cure. The most effective way to establish a predisposition to these types of cancer, or the presence of their signs, is a blood test for the presence of mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes (from the English BReast CANcer - breast cancer) and PSA (PSA) - a prostate specific antigen, an elevated level of which indicates a probable development of prostate cancer.

What does diagnostics include?

Diagnostics to identify factors of predisposition to oncological diseases - prostate cancer for men, breast cancer and ovarian cancer for women - is carried out using a venous blood test. The analysis is performed FREE OF CHARGE by qualified medical personnel of medical organizations of the state healthcare system of Moscow in compliance with all sanitary and hygienic requirements.

How would this happen?

To pass the analysis, you must have a passport with you and give consent to the processing of personal data (provide a reliable way of feedback). The analysis is carried out by taking blood from a vein.

How to prepare for analysis?

Women: a blood test for BRCA1 and BRCA2 (determines the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer) does not require prior preparation.

Men: PSA blood test for predisposition to prostate cancer:

• Two days before the analysis, it is advisable to refrain from sexual activity.
• Half an hour before blood sampling, physical overexertion should be excluded.

Is the accuracy of the results guaranteed?

To obtain the most accurate data, the screening study will be carried out according to a standardized procedure in compliance with modern requirements. This will eliminate the influence of random factors on the results of the analyzes.

Laboratory studies will be carried out on the same type of equipment, using the same reagents and with strict observance of routine quality control procedures at all stages of the technological process.

How will blood tests be carried out after the test?

Only large laboratories equipped with fully automated equipment, using modern information technologies for processing the data obtained and capable of performing screening tests in automatic mode have the technological capabilities to perform large volumes of research during mass examination of the population.

There are such laboratories in medical organizations of the Moscow City Health Department.

How long to wait for test results?

The time of the study can take up to 1 month, because it is during screening laboratory examinations that the processing of the results obtained takes a fairly long time.

The results will be reported to the specified e-mail address or (optionally) to the clinic at the place of attachment.

The confidentiality of the personal information received and the results of the analyzes obtained is ensured in accordance with applicable law.

What to do after receiving the results?

In the event that the results of the study show deviations from the norm, the patient will be invited for a consultation at the polyclinic (men) or the Clinic for Women's Health of the Moscow Clinical Scientific Center named after. S.A. Loginova DZM (women).

Remember: detection of cancer in the early stages gives a high probability of a complete cure!

Malignant neoplasms can affect almost any organ of the human body. It often happens that a person is unaware of the development of such a terrible disease, and cancer makes itself felt when the degree of its development is too high and cannot be effectively treated.

A great salvation in the fight against cancer is modern diagnostics, which is able to detect the presence of malignant cells by. This is perhaps the most affordable and fastest way to identify the presence or absence of a disease.

The definition of cancer by a blood test is a very effective diagnostic method, since any cancer cell secretes a protein called a tumor marker. Each organ has its own special type of oncomarker, respectively, a blood test allows you to determine which organ was affected by the disease.

The presence of tumor markers can also be detected in healthy people, but their number is insignificant. In the case of the formation of a malignant tumor, their number increases significantly, which makes it possible to determine the disease even at an early stage, while there are no symptoms.

However, it is important to note that the definition of such a serious diagnosis is combined with other types of clarifying examinations.

What are the types of tumor markers?

• Cancer of the pancreas (). In addition, the presence of such a tumor marker may indicate a cancerous tumor in the intestine or stomach.
• Cancer of the breast with metastases ().
• Cancer of the intestines, lungs, prostate and, as well as the bladder and mammary glands (PEA).
• Cancer of the prostate ().
• Cancer of the ovaries ().
• Cancer of the liver in the initial stage ().
• Nephroblastoma or neuroblastoma (Beta-hCG).
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
• Intercellular lung cancer (PRO-GRP).

Preparation for a blood test for tumor markers

In order for the result to be as reliable as possible, you need to know some clarifications that will help you more accurately determine the result:

• To take an analysis for tumor markers should be strictly on an empty stomach.
• You can not eat food less than 8 hours before donating blood.
• Do not smoke or drink alcohol the night before.
• On the eve, you can not do heavy physical work. udom.
• The analysis, as a rule, is given several times in order to track the dynamics.

If an analysis for oncomarkers is done during the course of treatment and should reflect its effectiveness, then it is important to simultaneously monitor the indicators, the reliability of the results depends on this.

It is important to understand that in a healthy person, tumor markers are usually absent, but there are physiological features of the body, due to which doctors can fix a small amount of antigens in the blood. In this case, cancer is not confirmed.

If the result of the analysis was the detection of oncomarkers in an amount significantly exceeding the norm, then this indicates the development of an oncological disease. To clarify, the patient is prescribed a series of tests and examinations that can confirm the presence of cancer in more detail.

There is a category of people who need to be periodically tested for tumor markers for preventive purposes:

• In the presence of any neoplasm, even a small size.
• In remission, in order to control the development of new tumors.
• In the process of treatment, in order to track the dynamics of improvements.
• In professions that are at risk for the development of oncology.
• If you have relatives with cancer.

The main task of the analysis for tumor markers is to determine the course of the disease at the initial stage, when the patient does not feel any symptoms of the disease. In this case, prompt and well-constructed therapy can effectively save even such a terrible diagnosis as cancer.

The norm of the content of tumor markers in the blood

The doctor should deal with the decoding of blood tests for tumor markers, exactly as well as making the correct diagnosis. Of course, there are generally accepted norms for the content of oncomarkers in the blood, but they can be incorrectly stated by the patients themselves due to a lack of knowledge and qualifications.

Permissible level of oncomarker in the blood (IU \ ml, IU \ ml):

• Cancer tumor (CA19-9) no more than 10.
• Cancer tumor with metastases (CA15-3) no more than 30.
• Cancer of the prostate and cervix, as well as the bladder and mammary glands (PEA) no more than 5.
• Prostate cancer () no more than 2.5.
• Cancer (CA-125) no more than 35.
• Cancer of the liver in the initial stage (AFP) no more than 10.
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) no more than 2.5.

Of course, the norms have their own age and physiological limitations, which the doctor takes into account when making a diagnosis. Old age and the presence of pregnancy can significantly change the indicators. It should also be remembered that even a benign education can exceed the standards of results.

How to recognize cancer in the early stages?

Unfortunately, it is far from always possible to detect the formation of a malignant tumor at an early stage. Most often, a person is unaware of the disease, and symptoms begin to appear already in the later stages, when treatment becomes less effective.

However, there are some signs that should make you immediately consult a doctor to rule out such a diagnosis as cancer.

• Visible/tangible seal on the body.
• The onset of coughing and shortness of breath.
• Constantly elevated temperature.
• Lack of appetite.
• Increased sweating.
• Sudden weight loss.
• Fast fatiguability.
• Problems with .
• Badly healing wounds and cuts.
• Periodic aching pain.

For more information about blood tests for cancer, see the video:

Having found several symptoms, you should immediately seek help from a doctor and undergo a complete examination of the body. In case of suspicion of the development of a malignant tumor, blood tests for tumor markers will be prescribed, as well as other clarifying examinations that will help make the correct diagnosis.

Do not panic ahead of time, because the suspicions of the development of a malignant tumor are not always confirmed. And in case of detection of cancer in the early stages, it is successfully and effectively treated.

Diagnostic tests establish the possibility of cancer even before the general symptoms.

Screening helps doctors detect some types of cancer at an early stage, which helps to establish timely and adequate treatment. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already have spread to other tissues, making it harder to treat and worsening the prognosis of the disease.

Types of screenings for cancer

• Universal screening (mass):

Includes examination of all representatives of a certain age group.

• Selective screening:

Aimed at people at higher risk of developing cancer, as well as those with a family history of the disease.

Screening is not always effective. Often it leads to false positive results (when the disease is not actually present) or false negative results (when the presence of cancer is not determined). Therefore, additional examinations prescribed by the attending oncologist should be carried out in order to identify a possible disease.

Since there are many types of cancer, different symptoms are identified.

To know for sure how to determine cancer, you should initially find out the relationship with the tumor dislocation organs and the duration of observation of some symptoms.

With a long course of the disease, the tumor grows into neighboring tissues (nerves, blood vessels and other cells).

1. Expenditure by the body of a large amount of energy (occurs so that mutated tissues can grow). Because of this, a person feels tired, weak, weight loss, sometimes fever for no apparent reason.
2. Feeling the seal on some parts of the body. It occurs when cancer cells release toxins into the blood channels. In this case, the tumor is formed in the lymph nodes or in the general bloodstream.
3. There is constant pain because the tumor can affect nerve endings or other organs.
4. Changes in the condition of the skin. The skin changes color or develops unexpected pigmentation, spots on the body, and a rash or itching.
5. Have persistent bleeding or other discharge from the mouth, genitals, nose, ears, or nipple.
6. Open wounds or bruises form that do not respond to antibiotic treatment. Attention should also be paid to mouth ulcers that do not heal and are characterized by an unusual color (red, brown-red) and jagged edges.
7. Paleness of the skin, combined with weakness and a tendency to infection. Such symptoms may indicate leukemia, bone marrow cancer, etc.

How to determine if there is cancer in advance?

Some types of cancer can be detected at an early stage under certain conditions. For this, it is recommended to use appropriate diagnostic tests.

Women who are at higher risk of developing the disease are recommended to have a mammogram before the age of 40. The procedure is performed for women who had this disease in their first-line relatives (mother, sister, daughter). As a preventive measure, older women are recommended to examine the mammary glands every two years.

It is advisable to use a Pap test or others to prevent disease in young women under 20 and a little older who are prone to have abnormal cells. For women at no risk of the disease and without an atypical pap smear screening for cervical cancer, screening should be done every 3 years, regardless of cervical cancer vaccination.

The main thing in diagnosing colorectal cancer is the definition of benign formations called polyps. They can be removed during colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy. Also, it is recommended to screen the colon and rectum by taking feces to detect occult blood. The examination should be carried out for people who have a precancer of this type of oncology, and are also aged.

The disease is defined in the presence of conditions such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Diagnosis includes special testing, sometimes a biopsy to check for the presence of a prostate-specific antigen.

The disease is determined by tomographic examination, which is recommended to be carried out annually for people aged 55 to 80 years, as well as those who have a thirty-year history of smoking.

Almost impossible to detect in the early stages. However, as a preventive measure, regular endoscopic ultrasound, as well as MRI and CT, are recommended for individuals at high risk of developing the disease due to congenital genetics and negative family history.

If the question arises: “How to determine if there is cancer?”, It is best to consult a doctor who will select the most effective way to diagnose cancer and confirm or refute your suspicions. The choice of method for determining cancer depends on the possible location of the tumor. Common basic medical tests for cancer include a blood test for cancer, a urinalysis, an MRI scan, a CT scan, a biopsy, an ultrasound, a radionuclide test, an endoscopy, a colonoscopy, a physical exam, a mammogram, and other tests.

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The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! It is not recommended to use the described methods and recipes for the treatment of cancer on your own and without consulting a doctor!

When to get tested for cancer and how to do it

Cancer is an insidious disease, some forms of which can often develop for a long time unnoticed by its carrier. According to statistics for 2015, in Russia, 27.5% of malignant tumors were diagnosed at the first stage of the disease, 26.2% - at the second stage, 20.1% - at the third, 26.2% - at the last, fourth stage. The sooner a disease can be detected, the greater the chance of a successful fight against it.

Oncologist Ekaterina Chernova told The Village how to understand that it is time for you to get tested for cancer and what tests you should take to get complete information about what is happening in the body.

Chernova Ekaterina Valerievna

Candidate of Medical Sciences, oncologist-surgeon-mammologist of the OncoStop project

Why it is necessary to be checked, even if nothing bothers

Cancer is a malignant tumor that is formed as a result of a complex multi-stage process of transformation of normal cells into tumor cells. In a simplified form, it looks like this: normal cells -> precancer -> cancer. Further, tumor cells begin to multiply uncontrollably and rapidly, the tumor grows into nearby tissues and structures, and individual malignant cells spread to distant organs and tissues, forming metastases. Cancer can develop in any organ and goes through four stages in its development.

In the early stages, cancer, as a rule, does not manifest itself in any way, and its detection is most often an accidental finding during the examination. Therefore, it is very important to undergo regular examinations of the whole body. Let me remind you that cancer is one of the main causes of death worldwide - in 2015, 8.8 million people died from it.

Most Common Risk Factors for Cancer

Tobacco use, including cigarette smoking (including secondhand smoke), smokeless tobacco use

Tobacco use is the most significant risk factor for cancer, accounting for almost 22% of global cancer deaths, according to the GBD 2015 Risk Factors Collaborators.

Overweight or obesity

Unhealthy diet with low consumption of fruits and vegetables

Reduced or lack of physical activity

HPV (human papillomavirus) infection

Infection with hepatitis B, C or other carcinogenic infections

Ionizing and ultraviolet radiation

Air pollution in cities

Indoor smoke pollution from the use of solid fuels in homes

Precancerous conditions

Precancerous changes are different. Obligate precancer is distinguished - the stage of early oncological pathology, which sooner or later transforms into cancer. These changes require radical treatment. They also distinguish an optional precancer, which does not necessarily turn into a malignant tumor, but it requires careful monitoring of itself.

For example, among the possible causes of gastric cancer, long-term chronic gastritis, especially atrophic gastritis, Menetrier's disease, is of great importance. The patient will be disturbed by pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen after eating, prolonged heartburn, belching after eating. Facultative bowel precancers include ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

If we talk about precancerous conditions of the skin, then the patient needs to monitor the number, size, color, symmetry of moles on the body. Any change in these signs, as well as pain and bleeding in the area of ​​​​the mole, are important symptoms and require immediate medical attention.

Precancerous diseases of the female genital organs include severe dysplasia, leukoplakia of the vulva and cervix, polyps of the female genital organs, cicatricial deformity of the cervix and other diseases.

A precancerous condition of the mammary glands is the proliferation of the epithelium of the mammary glands with signs of atypia. Factors that significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer include family history. If a woman has close relatives who developed breast cancer before menopause, it is necessary to consult an oncologist and a geneticist. It is very important to independently regularly examine the mammary glands with your hands. It is advisable to carry out this self-examination monthly in the first phase of the menstrual cycle.

Most often die from the following types of cancer (per year):

lung cancer - 1.69 million people

liver cancer - human

colon and rectal cancer - human

cases are registered in Russia

Every year

More people a day around the world get cancer

At least 2.5 million people in Russia are registered in oncology dispensaries

More people die of cancer every year in Russia

How to get tested for cancer

Seek help from a general practitioner in the district clinic.

You need to express a desire to undergo a regular annual complete examination, which is prescribed by a therapist.

If any pathology is detected, the doctor will definitely prescribe a clarifying additional examination for you and give you a referral to the district oncologist, as well as to other specialist doctors, depending on your individual clinical situation.

You can also apply on your own to an oncologist at a regional oncology dispensary or a private clinic and express a desire to be examined there.

There is a lot of information on the Internet about how to detect the presence of oncopathology. You can choose any private clinic, call there, and the clinic manager will make an appointment with an oncologist.

Necessary examinations

Firstly, it is necessary to regularly undergo a comprehensive examination on your own and with a doctor, even if nothing bothers you.

If you have any complaints, you should immediately consult a doctor, without waiting for the next examination.

The doctor will prescribe you tests, the list of which may vary depending on which organ is affected, as well as depending on the individual characteristics of your health, comorbidity and the prevalence of the pathological process

How can you reduce your risk of developing cancer?

To prevent 30 to 50% of cancers from occurring,

avoid risk factors whenever possible

deal with hazards in the workplace and at home

know about the existence of precancerous pathology, be able to identify precancerous conditions

regularly visit a doctor for a comprehensive diagnosis of the whole organism

vaccinate against HPV infections and hepatitis B virus

reduce exposure to ultraviolet and ionizing radiation

Regular visits to the doctor and examinations will help to identify precancerous conditions and prevent the occurrence of cancer. Early diagnosis of cancer allows you to completely cure the disease. When the disease is diagnosed in the later stages, radical treatment is no longer possible.

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14 Signs It's Time to Get Your Cancer Test!

Scary, but better to know!

The American Cancer Society recorded 1.5 million cases of cancer in the US alone in 2015. All medical experts say that early detection of a tumor is critical to fighting the disease. There are some signs of cancer development that absolutely cannot be ignored. Pay attention to all changes in the body, as they can be a sign not only of this disease, but also of a number of others. Get your body clear of cancer cells if you feel any of these symptoms. Remember: these signs only mean that you need to seek medical help.

Bloating in women.

Unexplained and chronic flatulence may indicate ovarian cancer. Dr. Beth Yu Karlan explains: “Ovarian cancer is a silent killer. Usually no one pays attention to the fact that his stomach quickly and regularly swells after dinner. If you feel like your stomach is full too quickly, and you still experience low back pain on a regular basis, see your doctor. Especially if you feel these symptoms for several weeks in a row.

Irregular bleeding in women.

Any abnormal bleeding that occurs after menopause or is not associated with a cycle at all could be a sign of something serious. For example, endometrial, or cervical cancer.

Dr Karolyn Runovich says:

Any bleeding, even small drops of blood on underwear, is not normal. Not to mention clots. If this happens to you, you must immediately investigate what is wrong.

So get ready to see a doctor if you notice something like this. Let's hope that we are talking about some banal infection of the cervix.

Pain in the abdomen and pelvic organs in women.

Pain in the pelvic organs or abdomen can be a sign of serious problems with the ovaries. If this pain is also accompanied by bloating, if you have problems with appetite or urination, this requires a trip to the doctor.

See also: Don't accept these gifts: 7 things that bring bad luck!

“These symptoms are also seen when it is not about cancer, but about other problems. When they are caused by cancer, they are stable and regular.

Persistent back pain in men.

This problem can have many causes. And most of them, fortunately, are not associated with cancer. However, colon and prostate cancer is almost always accompanied by severe back pain. So if you are faced with them, it would not hurt to make an appointment with a doctor.

Healthline writes on the subject:

Back pain is the most common cause of disability. People don't realize it, but it can also indicate prostate cancer. He also has another symptom: pain in the bones of the thighs.

Of course, muscle pain in and of itself should not cause you to panic. But if this condition is repeated in you regularly, we are probably talking about something serious.

Changes in the testicles in men.

One of the best ways to protect against testicular cancer is to constantly monitor the condition and size of these organs. It is important that their size and shape do not change.

Dr. Herbert Lepore explains:

If you notice something superfluous on them, some kind of heavy new formation, never postpone an examination by a doctor. Unlike prostate cancer, which grows slowly, testicular cancer can develop overnight!

In general, take a look at yourself!

Pain in the groin, thighs or pelvis in men.

Prostate cancer can give not only pain in the back, but also pain in the groin, thighs and buttocks. The same symptoms are characteristic of testicular cancer. And remember: any chronic pain or swelling is definitely a sign of something serious.

Read also: "Silent killers" of your health: 6 diseases that are asymptomatic

Persistent cough in men and women.

As a rule, a cough is a consequence of a cold. However, if he refuses to leave and torments you for months/years, then this may indicate cancer - thyroid, throat or lung.

We know that coughs and colds are usually related. But if the cough does not go away for months, do not be afraid to go for a consultation with a doctor.

Smoking can also be a cause of chronic cough. "This is the number one cancer killer among women," emphasizes Karlan.

Problems with urination in men and women.

If you have recurring problems with bowel movements and urination, this may be a sign of something very serious.

Healthline writes:

Everyone has bowel problems in one way or another, but serious changes, chronic pain, feeling like the stomach is “swollen” - all these can be symptoms of rectal cancer.

If blood comes out of you along with the feces, then it's time to immediately contact the professionals.

Sudden weight loss in men and women.

Sudden and unexplained weight loss can have several causes, but they are all very serious. So, in particular, some types of cancer manifest themselves.

The American Cancer Society writes:

Unexplained loss of even 5 kg may indicate cancer. This is usually the case with cancer of the pancreas, stomach, esophagus, or lungs.

Stress, however, can also cause this. But it's better to take a blood test to make sure everything is fine.

Breast changes in men and women.

Many people think that breast cancer only affects women, but it actually occurs in men too. Its first sign: the appearance of lumps of an incomprehensible nature in the chest area.

See also: What fate awaits you according to the sign of the zodiac

Dr Myers says:

Men tend to ignore the risk of getting this type of cancer. But in 1% of all cases, it develops in men, not women. And almost all sick people seek medical help too late.

Breast cancer is treated without any problems: the main thing is to detect it at an early stage.

Enlarged lymph nodes in men and women.

These are small glands located in several places throughout the body. The main ones are on the neck and armpits. Swollen lymph nodes are most often a sign of hypothermia or a consequence of a sore throat.

However, Dr. Marlene Myers notes that if the swelling does not go away within two to four weeks, you should definitely see a doctor.

Changes in the skin of men and women.

You should be on the lookout for any new growths on your skin. After all, this type of cancer is extremely important and most importantly - easy - to recognize at an early stage.

Pay attention to any new moles that appear on your body. If you do not like their color, shape or size, contact your doctor immediately.

Moreover, this is the best case when “it’s better to overdo than underdo”: timely detected skin cancer cells help to stop it instantly.

Any changes in the mouth of men and women.

First of all, you should pay attention to the appearance of incomprehensible white or red spots in the oral cavity. Especially if you smoke or chew tobacco!

The American Cancer Society writes:

White spots in the mouth and white spots on the tongue may indicate a precancerous condition. Any changes that do not resolve quickly should be checked by a doctor."

Severe chronic fatigue in men and women.

We mean fatigue for no reason. Those. if every day you feel even worse in the morning than in the evenings, then most likely you are ill with something really serious.

The American Cancer Society writes:

Fatigue is an important symptom if it becomes more and more acute over time. This is how leukemia or other types of cancer usually manifest themselves.

As you understand, this is also the case when it is better to go to the doctor once again to understand that you are safe than to regret it later in the hospital room.

Dr. Beth Karlan emphasizes:

We didn't mean to alarm you. We just want to explain to you: we can cure cancer, if you find it in the early stages, then nothing bad will happen to you. Use the latest achievements of medical science to the maximum - and you will be able to live as you lived before the diagnosis. The main thing is to appear at the oncologists on time.

In short, you understand. We just couldn't help but warn you. Show this article to all the friends you know! This could save someone's life.

How to get tested for whole body cancer?

Timely noticed symptoms and complex diagnostics make it possible to increase the effectiveness of treatment, and in many cases to refute the diagnosis. At the first suspicion of cancer, you should contact an oncologist and get tested.

When Can You Detect Cancer?

Oncological diseases are able to stay in the body for a long time without provoking specific signs. Most often, an early process is detected during a preventive examination or by chance, when passing clinical tests for other purposes.

Cancer in the first stage is detected in only 25-30% of cases.

To exclude cancerous formations, it is enough to undergo a complex of diagnostic procedures at least once a year.

On World Cancer Day, some medical institutions provide the opportunity to check the entire body for the formation of a malignant tumor for free.

What methods can detect cancer

Cancer diagnosis is a complex and multifactorial process. To detect oncological pathology, different groups of diagnostic methods are used:

• X-ray - for examination and visualization of the organ, performed with contrast;
• endoscopic - for examination of abdominal organs;

The selection of the necessary diagnostic procedures in each case is performed by the doctor during the preliminary consultation of the patient. During a preventive examination of the body, a standard set of procedures is prescribed.

How is a comprehensive diagnosis of the whole organism

In order to examine the entire body for the presence of a malignant formation, it is required to pass general tests and take x-rays of all organs.

The test allows you to identify pathology even in the absence of symptoms.

Detection of a cancerous tumor at an early stage ensures the success of treatment in 90-95% of cases.

To check for cancer, determine where the tumor is located and at what stage, a series of examinations is prescribed.

The diagnostic program standardly includes a consultation with a specialized doctor, blood and tumor tissue tests, genetic studies and tomography.

In order to diagnose a pathological neoplasm, ultrasound can also be prescribed. However, the procedure is effective only in cases where the tumor has reached a certain size.

Ultrasound is not used to diagnose cancer in the initial stages.

This method allows you to establish the exact dimensions of the overgrown tumor, as well as determine the structure and contours of the formation. Often an ultrasound-guided biopsy is performed.

Other necessary examinations for the diagnosis of oncology

If general tests have shown the presence of pathological processes in the body, and depending on which organs the neoplasm has affected, the patient is prescribed the following diagnostic methods:

• analysis of feces to detect latent blood - if cancer of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, large or small intestine) is suspected;
• colonoscopy and gastroscopy - also for gastrointestinal pathologies;
• mammography - with a tumor in the breast;
• bronchography, angiography - x-ray examinations to detect pathologies in the chest;

Based on the results of the studies at the repeated consultation of the oncologist, further treatment is determined. In some cases, additional tests may be required.

When do you need to be screened for cancer?

There is a list of factors that increase the risk of pathology. The risk group includes the following categories of patients:

• older people, the greatest risk of developing oncology in people from the age category over 60 years;
• smokers (including passive ones);
• human papillomavirus (HPV) infected;

People who belong to one or more risk groups are recommended to undergo cancer diagnostics at a frequency of 1-2 times a year. Getting rid of bad habits and eliminating other risk factors reduces the likelihood of developing oncology by 30-35%.

Thank you for the principles of treatment, and the video is very clear. The most important step in the treatment of diarrhea

Microbes multiply rapidly in the oral cavity, and therefore it is necessary to treat the throat effectively.

Periodically, the intestines, (common sewerage), it needs to be cleaned of accumulations. Lots of techniques

Thanks for your list. She herself had been ill just a week ago, she also sat at home with a throat. For me

Thanks for the cheat sheet, what is possible and what is not possible with diarrhea, I will keep it for myself just in case. I remember