Conoce los 7 métodos de detección de cáncer más comunes

Author: Liu Ying, Deputy Director of the Medical Examination Center at Harbin Medical University Oncology Hospital. Reviewer: N/A. Commissioner: N/A. Production Organization: N/A. In a press conference on wellness topics during the Fourth Session of the 14th National People's Congress, the importance of early cancer detection was emphasized. Regarding how to choose the health screening method according to different situations, Liu Ying explained that tumor detection utilizes professional techniques to identify early changes in tumors or to obtain risk factors in those examined, in order to prevent cancer onset. The "Healthy China 2030 Action Plan" states that a five-year survival rate of 46.6% for cancer is expected by 2030, and early cancer detection is the most important means to achieve this goal.

Liu Ying stated, "Generally, in China, basic health examinations should begin at 35 years of age. After 40, in addition to basic tests, some specific tests must be added, commonly referred to as 1+X examinations. The 'X' includes screenings for tumors, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, infectious diseases, and occupational diseases. In summary, these common and high-incidence tumors can be detected early through specific health screenings for tumors."

The most common tumors include lung cancer, breast cancer, thyroid cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, and esophageal cancer, among others. It is essential to choose different examination methods according to the type of cancer. A low-dose CT scan is recommended for lung cancer; those over 40 should undergo a CT scan. For breast cancer, depending on age and medical history, mammary ultrasound or a combined mammogram should be chosen. Individuals with a family history of cancer should undergo BRCA genetic testing. For thyroid cancer, a thyroid ultrasound with elasticity assessment is required. For liver cancer, a liver ultrasound combined with AFP is suggested; individuals with a history of hepatitis should undergo exams every 6 months. In the case of gastrointestinal tumors, such as esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, and colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy is recommended. A colonoscopy should be performed starting at 40 years of age; if no problems are present, the next exam can be every 5 years. If polyps are found, follow-up is generally required in 1-2 years or 2-3 years, depending on the nature of the polyps.