Early Detection of Cancer

Breast, cervical, prostate and colorectal cancer are 4 types of cancer that can be detected before any symptoms appear. Early detection is key to keeping these diseases manageable. In taking care of our health, good nutrition, smoke-free living, and healthy lifestyles are important in maintaining health and preventing diseases. Getting regular checkups from our doctor and having screening done for certain cancers is also very important. 

Breast Cancer

"Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Ontario women. It is anticipated in 2005 that 8,200 Ontario women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 2,000 will die from it. The good news is that death rates in Ontario women aged 50-69 have decreased 29% between 1989-2002. The significant decrease is attributed to increases in the number of women attending breast screening improvements in treatment." (OBSP Annual Report, 2004-2005.)

Did you know?
  • Breast self-examination is a good way to become familiar with your breast so that you are more likely to notice changes.
  • Each woman needs to have a clinical breast exam by her doctor at least every 2 years.
  • The Ontario Breast Screening Program offers free mammograms to women over 50.
  • From April 2004 - March 2005 the Ontario Breast Screening Mobile Coach did 6,212 mammograms in Northwestern Ontario (OBSP 2004-2005 Annual Report).
  • You can see the Breast Screening Van Schedule online.
Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is the 10th most common cancer in Ontario women of all ages, but is the 2nd most common in women under 50 (Insight on Cancer, Oct. 2005). The primary risk factor for cervical cancer is presence of HPV (Human Papillomavirus). HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that can be detected early on with a Pap test. At least 50% of sexually active women will be infected with one or more types of HPV in their life (Insight on Cancer, Oct. 2005). Pap tests can identify precancerous lesions, which can be treated early so that they don't turn into cancer.

  • The Ontario Cervical Screening Program (OCSP) recommends that all sexually active women have a Pap test annually until they have had 3 successive normal Paps, and every 2-3 years thereafter until the age of 70.
  • An abnormal Pap result does not mean you have cancer. Talk to your doctor or health provider about what your abnormal result means.
  • Although Pap tests can almost entirely prevent cervical cancer, only 81% of women have had a recent Pap.
  • The Northwestern Health Unit in Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances and Sioux Lookout have sexual health clinics with doctors who perform Pap tests for young women. To call and book your appointment, contact your local Health Unit.
Prostate Cancer

Cancer of the prostate is a disease that affects only men, and it now ranks as the most common cancer diagnosed iin Ontario men (Cancer Care Ontario). The prostate, which is a gland the size of a walnut,is located men in front of the rectum, below the bladder and it surrounds the urethra. This gland produces part of the fluid that is in semen. As men age, their prostate can grow and can cause problems with urinating frequency, and even difficulty urinating. When men reach middle age, there is about a ten-fold increase in risk for every 5-10 years of age (Cancer Care Ontario).

Did you know?
  • Your doctor at your checkups can do two tests to detect prostate cancer. Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) testing is a blood test that can be ordered by your doctor, and a digital rectal exam can be done in the office.
  • It was estimated that in 2005, that 20,500 men will be newly diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 4,300 would die from it (Canadian Cancer Society).
  • Current mortality rates are 18% lower than in the early 1990's (Cancer Care Ontario).
  • All men over 50 should talk to their doctor about early detection of prostate cancer.
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