Preventive Onco-Gynecology & Health Checkup

Overview

Breast cancer screening is essential for detecting cancer at an early stage when it’s most treatable. In addition to mammography, clinical breast exams and self-exams play a role in ongoing breast health monitoring.

Methods

Clinical Breast Exam

A healthcare provider checks for lumps or changes in the breast tissue.

Self-Exam

Women can monitor changes in their breast appearance and texture, such as lumps or discharge, and report them to their doctor.

Frequency

Mammograms are generally recommended annually or biennially from age 40, while self-exams and clinical exams vary based on individual risk.

Benefits

Regular screening allows for early intervention, significantly improving survival rates in breast cancer patients.

Overview

Mammography is an X-ray imaging method used to detect early signs of breast cancer, often before physical symptoms develop. It’s particularly effective in identifying small tumors and abnormalities.

Procedure

During a mammogram, each breast is compressed to get clear X-ray images, helping identify lumps, calcifications, or other unusual findings.

Frequency

Generally recommended every 1–2 years for women aged 40 and above or earlier for those with a family history of breast cancer.

Benefits

Early detection through mammography can significantly improve the prognosis of breast cancer, making treatment more effective.

Overview

The Pap test (or Pap smear) screens for cervical cancer by detecting precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix. It’s a vital test that has greatly reduced cervical cancer incidence.

Procedure

A small sample of cells is gently scraped from the cervix and examined under a microscope for abnormalities.

Frequency

Recommended by your gynecologist.

Benefits

By catching abnormal cells early, the Pap test can help prevent cervical cancer or treat it in very early stages. This is a painless procedure.

Overview

The HPV vaccine protects against the most common strains of the human papillomavirus, particularly those linked to cervical cancer and other cancers (e.g., throat, anal).

Administration

Typically administered in two or three doses over six months, ideally before becoming sexually active (often recommended at ages 11-12).

Benefits

Prevents HPV infections that are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases, reducing the likelihood of developing cervical and other HPV-related cancers later in life.

Overview

Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease, often following an abnormal Pap test result.

Procedure

A colposcope (a magnifying instrument with a light) is used to view and evaluate any abnormal areas more clearly. Biopsies may be taken if necessary.

Benefits

Helps diagnose issues in the cervix early, allowing for targeted treatment to prevent cervical cancer. It’s also useful in assessing and monitoring abnormal cervical cells over time.