KUWAIT CITY, Jan 17, (Agencies): Routine examinations play a pivotal role in the timely detection of diseases, particularly for conditions like cancer, where early intervention significantly improves treatment outcomes. Cancer screening tests increase the likelihood of identifying the disease at an early stage, facilitating prompt treatment.

Despite the importance of screenings, determining when and which tests to undergo can be challenging. Recent medical research has influenced a revision in the recommended ages for breast and colorectal cancer screenings, as an increasing number of individuals below 50 are being diagnosed with these cancers and others.

While certain cancer screening tests aim to identify risks, they may have limitations, such as producing false alarms. Consequently, the frequency and timing of these tests can vary based on family history and individual risk factors. General recommendations are tailored for those at average risk, with individuals at higher risk potentially requiring more immediate and frequent testing.

For older individuals, early screening holds benefits in reducing the risk of succumbing to the disease. Deciding when to initiate screening, determining the appropriate frequency, and deciding when to cease screening can be nuanced, as suggested by Timothy Rebeck, a cancer epidemiologist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. For example, the American College of Health recommends that women consult their doctors by age 25 to assess breast cancer risk before initiating screening.

The latest expert guidance on cancer screening and genetic risk testing includes:

Breast Cancer:

-- Women at average risk should start mammograms at age 40, as per the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

-- The frequency can be every two years, although some doctors advocate annual exams. Opinions on when to stop mammograms vary among medical groups.

Colon and Rectum:

-- Individuals at average risk should commence colorectal cancer screening at age 45.

-- The frequency depends on the test, with options for home tests every one to three years and colonoscopy every 10 years.

-- Screening should continue until age 75, with further assessments based on the patient's health and doctor's advice.

Lung and Prostate:

-- Annual low-dose CT scans are recommended for lung cancer screening in adults aged 50 to 80 with a history of significant smoking.

-- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests are advised for men aged 55 to 69 for prostate cancer detection.

Cervical Cancer:

-- Women should undergo Pap smears every three years from ages 21 to 65.

-- Human papillomavirus (HPV) tests can be conducted every five years.

Additionally, a revolutionary blood test known as the Gallery test detects early signs of over 50 types of cancer. While this test holds promise, it is currently under review, not yet FDA-approved, and not widely recommended. Many doctors are enthusiastic about its potential but await more data before endorsing its widespread use.