This archive report was first published on 1 November 2019.
November 1, 2019, marked a significant awareness campaign for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Dealing with cancer is a complex process that involves various stages, from diagnosis to recovery.
At the onset of cancer diagnosis, doctors urge patients to be self-aware and monitor their bodies for signs and symptoms. These symptoms can be subtle, but they are crucial in identifying potential cancerous cells.
When cancer spreads, the body reacts in various ways, including extreme fatigue and other symptoms that may suggest a problem. Different cancers affect the body differently, with some being predominant in men, women, or children.
Before a proper cancer diagnosis is made, it's essential to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. This is where various tests and examinations come into play.
Some of the key tests and examinations include:
- Self-examination: This involves checking for physical changes in the body, such as lumps or irregularities. While self-examination can help detect cancerous tumours early, it can also cause unnecessary panic or false positives if not backed up by other tests.
- Lab test examinations: These involve collecting stool, urine, and blood samples to identify any irregularities that may indicate cancer.
- Imaging tests: These use machines to show images inside the body, helping to detect tumours and other irregularities that could be cancerous.
- Endoscopies: These involve inserting a tube into certain areas of the body to show tumours and other signs of cancer.
- Biopsies: This involves extracting tissues and cells to detect cancerous cells. A pathologist can then run tests to identify the presence of cancerous cells.
It's essential to note that these tests and examinations are not a substitute for a proper diagnosis. A doctor will use a combination of these tests to confirm a cancer diagnosis.
