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Early Cancer Detection: Get Ahead of the Game
Many women have questions about their medical needs. Dr. Tony Daniels, one of Laurel’s newest OB-GYN physicians, has some advice for women regarding their health.
According to Dr. Daniels, annual screenings are extremely important. Annual tests include:
- pap smear—for cervical cancer
- mammogram—for breast cancer
- pelvic exam—for uterine and ovarian cancer
- rectal exam—for colon cancer.
“These tests are extremely beneficial to women because they allow for detection of cancer in its earliest stages,” Dr. Daniels says. “The earlier cancer is diagnosed, the better the outcome.” He encourages women to take advantage of these screenings and considers them to be cost effective and noninvasive. These screenings have great benefits to one’s long-term health. “If you can find a disease early, you’re way ahead of the game.”
Pap Smears
Dr. Daniels says that a woman should receive her first pap smear at age 18 or when she becomes sexually active. “A pap smear should be performed annually, unless the woman is at high risk,” he says. “Then her physician will determine the frequency of the screening.”
Mammograms
Mammograms should begin around age 40 and should be scheduled every other year between the ages of 40 and 50. After age 50, women should have a mammogram annually. Again, if the patient is at high risk, tests may be scheduled earlier and more frequently.
Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer screenings are less frequent and usually begin at age 50. A basic screening includes a blood test. Low-risk patients may have a colonoscopy once every 10 years or a sigmoidoscopy once every five years.
Tony Daniels, MD, OB-GYN, says communication is extremely important in the patient-physician relationship. He encourages women to take advantage of their visit with their OB-GYN and use it as an opportunity to express any concerns and ask any questions about their health. “My goal is to improve their health so that they can lead a happy, healthy life,” he says. To make an appointment with Dr. Daniels, call 649-9904. |
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