Almost everyone’s life has been impacted by cancer in one way or another. Over 2 million Americans are predicted to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025 alone. While this statistic is scary, the good news is that many cancers are preventable, and many cancers are treatable if found early. Regular health screenings can help find conditions early when they are treatable, and individuals have the maximum treatment options. Plus, with new developments in cancer screening capabilities, we are now able to find cancer much earlier than was possible, even a decade ago. This week on Fox 17, Dr. Bitner shares information on these advancements, including the Contrast-Enhanced Mammogram and Galleri® Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test.
Fact #1
Women can only screen for three cancers: cervical cancer with a pap smear, breast cancer with a mammogram, and colon cancer with a colonoscopy. Men can also screen for prostate cancer. For some individuals, lung cancer screenings are available.
Fact #2
Mammograms (MMG) are the gold standard for breast cancer screenings and are recommended yearly for patients over 50. Results include breast density and a BIRADS score. Dense breasts can make cancer detection difficult and increase your risk of cancer. BIRADS categories range from 1 (not cancer) to 6 (high likelihood of cancer).
Colonoscopies are the gold standard of testing and involve having a bowel prep followed by a procedure where a camera is inserted to examine the walls of your colon and rectum. Colonoscopies are recommended every ten years but could be more frequent if abnormal cells are found.
Pap smears collect cells from the cervix to look for any changes or abnormalities that might indicate cervical cancer. After age 30, an HPV test is included to test for the presence of high-risk HPV. Pap smears are recommended every 3-5 years after age 21 or yearly for those at a higher risk.
Fact #3
There have been several exciting developments in cancer screenings over the last decade. Recent advancements in our understanding of cancer have made it possible to prevent cancer before it develops or detect cancer in its very early stages, giving patients more treatment options.
One of the main problems with mammograms is that they can miss up to 10% of breast cancers for individuals with dense breast tissue. The Contrast-Enhanced Mammogram works differently. It uses an iodine IV injection with a standard mammogram to produce two images: one with dye and one without the dye. Cancerous tissue will show up with the dye, potentially helping women get treatment faster without needing a costly MRI.
Fact #4
The Contrast-Enhanced Mammogram is not for everyone and is best for those who:
- Receive a call-back for a questionable mammogram
- Have palpable masses present
- Have a high risk of breast cancer
- Are receiving chemotherapy
Researchers are also exploring its use for women with extremely dense breast tissue and for preoperative screening and staging.
Fact #5
Another exciting advancement for cancer screening is the Galleri® Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test. When cancer grows, it releases cell-free DNA into the blood. Galleri® is a blood test that can detect cell-free DNA and the area of the body where this DNA is present, indicating potentially early cancer.
This is a breakthrough in cancer testing, as 70% of cancers do not have any way to be detected when they are very small and treatable. Galleri® screens for 50+ cancers that do not have any other screening options.
Fact #6
Good candidates for the Galleri® test include:
- Individuals over 50-years-old
- Those at high risk of developing cancer due to genetics or family history
- Those at high risk of developing cancer due to medical conditions such as obesity or diabetes
- Individuals with a history of cancer and are more than five years from active treatment
Fact #7
true. Women’s Health is one of several West Michigan health clinics that offer Galleri® testing. We will also be hosting a Galentine’s Galleri® event on Tuesday, February 11th at 5:30 PM. Registering for this event is free (testing is an additional cost), and light refreshments will be provided. Learn more and RSVP for the event.
Patient Story
Jane, 42, was super healthy, making sure to keep her diet well-balanced and exercise regularly. She was feeling great but knew she was at risk for lung cancer. Both her brother and uncle had passed away from the disease, even though neither had ever smoked.
Jane decided to take the Galleri® test to be on the safe side. The test came back positive for cancer, with a signal for potential cancer in her lungs. Jane’s healthcare provider requested imaging on her lungs, which found a small nodule that otherwise would not have been biopsied. The biopsy showed the development of early cancerous cells that, luckily, were able to be treated through surgery alone. Because they were able to catch her lung cancer so early, Jane did not have to go through rounds of radiation or chemotherapy.
With three small children, Jane could not imagine what would have happened if she had not taken the time and money to test. She hopes other people will consider whether Galleri® is right for them and wishes her brother could have been tested, too.
Health Tip of the Week
One of the best ways to take back control over your health narrative and prevent cancer is through lifestyle changes and early detection screenings. If you are committed to a cancer-free future, understand your family history and risk, schedule regular screenings, and talk to your healthcare provider about new developments in cancer screening.
Watch the full segment.
