Question

List and describe three tests designed to detect cancer. (pages \(454-57\) )

Short answer

Three tests designed to detect cancer include mammography, colonoscopy, and Pap smear. Mammography is an imaging test that uses low-dose X-rays to visualize breast tissue, helping detect early-stage breast cancer. A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for polyps, abnormal growths, or cancer using a long, flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope. A Pap smear is a screening tool for cervical cancer in women, involving the collection and examination of cervical cells under a microscope to check for abnormal changes. Early detection and regular screenings of these tests are crucial in increasing the chances of successful cancer treatment.

Step-by-step solution

Test 1: Mammography

Mammography is an imaging test that uses low-dose X-rays to visualize breast tissue. It helps detect early-stage breast cancer by identifying abnormal areas in the breast that may be cancerous. Women with an average risk of developing breast cancer are typically recommended to begin having regular mammograms starting at age 40-50, depending on their doctor's recommendation. Mammography helps find small tumors or abnormal growths before they can be detected through a physical exam, thus increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Test 2: Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for polyps, abnormal growths, or cancer. During the procedure, a doctor inserts a long, flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope into the rectum and moves it slowly through the colon. This allows the doctor to find and remove any polyps or suspicious-looking tissue for further testing. Generally, adults aged 50 and older should have a colonoscopy every 10 years, or more frequently if they have a higher risk of colon cancer due to family history or other factors. Early detection through colonoscopy greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Test 3: Pap smear

A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a screening tool for cervical cancer in women. It involves collecting cells from the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. These cells are then examined under a microscope to check for any abnormal changes that might indicate the presence of cancer or precancerous conditions. Women should start getting Pap smears at the age of 21 or sooner if they're sexually active, and continue getting them regularly based on their doctor's recommendations. Regular Pap smears can help catch and prevent cervical cancer before it becomes life-threatening.