Cancer Screening

What is a cancer screening?

A cancer screening is a preventive measure to minimize your risk of developing certain types of cancer. Many types of cancer, such as prostate and breast cancer, are treatable when caught early. By identifying your cancer risks, Dr. Tun can create an individualized prevention plan that lowers your chances of developing cancer.

Cancer screenings can also detect early-stage cancer, which allows you to get the appropriate treatments before the disease becomes life-threatening.

What types of cancer can doctors screen for?

Dr. Tun has the necessary experience to perform many types of cancer screenings, including:

Lung cancer

At his office, Dr. Tun can perform a lung function test to determine how well your lungs perform when you inhale and exhale. Measuring your lung function is a key indicator of lung cancer. These tests can also indicate the presence of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions.

Lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking cigarettes, increase your chances of developing this life-threatening disease. If Dr. Tun suspects you may have lung cancer, he may order a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. 

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is among the most common types of cancer in women. A routine manual breast exam involves checking your breasts for lumps, abnormal tissue, and even visual changes. If Dr. Tan suspects you’re exhibiting early signs of breast cancer, he may order a mammogram to view your internal breast tissue.

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer affects the cervix at the narrow end of the uterus. A Pap smear is a cervical cancer screening that involves using a small brush to swab and collect cervical cells. With an in-house lab, Dr. Tun and his team can perform your test onsite.

Prostate cancer

The prostate is a small gland that produces seminal fluid. To screen for prostate cancer, Dr. Tun can perform a digital exam that can help him determine whether you have an enlarged prostate. He may also order a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test to measure the level of PSA in your body.

Colorectal cancer

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends colorectal screenings for adults starting at age 45. However, Dr. Tun may recommend earlier screenings if you have colorectal cancer risk factors, such as having a family history, carrying excess weight, or smoking cigarettes.

Colonoscopies are the most common type of colorectal screenings. Dr. Tun may also suggest a guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT), which he and his team can perform at their in-house laboratory.

How do I prepare for a cancer screening?

Not all cancer screenings require prep work on your part. Dr. Tun always makes sure to tell you whether you need to fast or discontinue certain medications before your screening. He may send you written instructions on how to prepare before your visit.

To learn more about cancer screenings, call Jeffrey Tun, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.