Breast Cancer,Highlands Ranch|Reproductive Cancer Tests|The Colorado BWRC Fund

Tests Used for the Early Detection of Reproductive Cancers

Last updated 3 months ago

In the prevention of cancer, the single most valuable weapon is early detection of cancerous cells. Unfortunately, people with cancer often fail to display any obvious symptoms in the condition’s earliest stages. This is why screening tests, designed for individuals without cancer symptoms are so important.

There are two types of screening tests that can be used to detect reproductive cancers in women:

Pap Smear

This is an examination used to detect signs of cervical cancer. In the test, a cell sample is taken from the cervix and examined for the presence of abnormal cells. This test is generally considered highly effective. Physicians recommend that all women over the age of 30 receive a pap smear every two years, or as often as a physician advises.

Mammogram

This is an X-ray examination used to detect signs of breast cancer. The National Cancer Institute recommends that women receive mammogram screenings at least every two years after the age of 40.

Screening tests are not available for the other reproductive cancers: endometrial, ovarian, vaginal, and vulvar cancer. This means that everyone should be alert to the symptoms of these cancers and consult a physician immediately if any unusual symptoms are detected. For instance, bleeding after menopause may be an indicator of endometrial cancer, and pain in the pelvic area or pain after intercourse may indicate vaginal cancer. The tests that are commonly used to diagnose the presence of cancer include:

Ultrasound.
Imaging tests.
Blood tests.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans.
Computed Technology (CT) scans.

The Colorado BWRC Fund, a project of the Colorado Cancer Coalition, is dedicated to supporting research and prevention of breast cancer and women’s reproduction cancer. Every single donation makes a difference; it goes directly to help women across Colorado. To learn how you can make a difference in the fight against cancer, call The Colorado BWRC Fund today at (800) 511-4998.