The COVID-19 pandemic derailed many plans, but regular health screenings shouldn’t be one of them. Even with variants in the community, your Catholic Medical Center primary and specialty care providers are safe and ready to care for you. In addition to your annual physical with your primary care provider, you may also benefit from cancer screenings. Early detection is vital to ensuring better treatment options and better outcomes. If you meet any of the following criteria, be sure to talk to your primary care provider about scheduling your screening appointment.
COLONOSCOPY
Colorectal cancer has very few symptoms, making screening extremely important. Furthermore, pre-cancerous polyps can be removed if detected during a colonoscopy, preventing cancer from developing.
Criteria:
- Over 50
- Under 50 with above average risk (a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease or a personal/family history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps)
MAMMOGRAM
At CMC, we have a number of advanced technologies to screen for breast cancer. Our state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment shows tumors before you can feel a lump. Automated breast ultrasound (ABUS), breast MRI, and contrastenhanced mammography all provide more detailed screening for women at higher-risk for cancer or those who have a suspicious finding during their mammogram.
Criteria:
- Women over 40
- Women under 40 with family history should consult with their PCP about screening earlier
LOW-DOSE LUNG CT
A low-dose CT (LDCT) screening is a CT scan of your chest to look for lung cancer. More than a quarter of all cancer deaths in the U.S. are attributed to lung cancer. Early detection can be lifesaving. If caught early enough, lung cancer can be successfully treated and cured.
Criteria:
- Ages 55-77, and
- Have a history of heavy smoking (30 pack years), and
- Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years
Most insurance plans, including those under the Affordable Care Act, cover cancer screenings. Ask your insurance company about what you should expect or
click here to learn more about free screening options.