Early Detection, Screening & Diagnosis
Early detection and diagnosis are crucial when it comes to cancer treatment. The cancer care team follows the screening guidelines recommended by the American Cancer Society and specialists utilize advanced diagnostic technology to help detect cancer at the earliest stages. Visit cancer.org for the most up-to-date prevention and screening guidelines.
Accurate diagnosis is key to developing an effective treatment plan and may include:
- Advanced imaging technology: Computerized tomography (CT or CAT scan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound imaging (sonography), positron emission tomography (PET/CT scanning) and other advanced imaging technologies provide a detailed picture of internal organs and tissues to detect cancer.
- Breast cancer detection: Sophisticated breast imaging technologies such as 2D and 3D mammography, ultrasound and MRI can play an important role in early detection of breast cancer.
- Biopsy: Fine needle and/or excisional biopsies determine whether cells are cancerous and if so, determine the type and stage of cancer. Advanced imaging technology (MRI, CT, ultrasound) are often combined with minimally invasive techniques to collect tissue samples.
- Colonoscopy: The American Cancer Society recommends that men and women at average risk for colorectal cancer should have their first colonoscopy at age 45. Talk with your doctor about colon health or schedule a screening by calling (260) 969-7184.
- Lung cancer screenings: Low-dose CT lung cancer screenings are a quick, painless way to detect lung cancer at an early stage, when it is most treatable. Anyone interested in a CT lung cancer screening must meet either the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) or Medicare/Medicaid high-risk criteria.
- High-risk genetics screening and testing: Specialized testing is available specifically for those who are at high-risk for developing cancer due to family history.
Discovering cancer at the earliest stages offers the best opportunity for successful treatment. Call Lutheran Hospital’s Cancer Resource Center at (260) 435-7959 for more information about screening and detection.
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