Early Detection Saves Life: Importance of Regular Screenings and Health Checks

Regular screening and health checks are important for the early detection of silent health conditions that does not show any symptoms at initial stages including cancer. Regular screening is one of the prevention strategies to maintain long-term health by preventing from development of diseases. 

Importance of early detection

As per research, globally, around 10 million cancer-related deaths have been reported. However, amidst these concerning figures, there is a ray of hope embedded in preventive measures, which is supported by much evidence. One of the studies demonstrated that early-stage lung cancer diagnosis led to an increased survival rate. Furthermore, breast cancer mortality has decreased by 43%, compared to previous data with 0.4% growth. Similarly, early diagnosis of prostate cancer can help prevent complications and achieve better treatment outcomes. This demonstrates the transformative impact of targeted efforts to improve cancer survival rates by early identification.

According to the World Cancer Report, 33-50% of cancer deaths can be avoided by expanding the coverage of early detection, prevention, and effective treatment modalities. 

What factors cause a delay in cancer detection?

Barriers to early cancer detection include several key challenges:

1. Lack of awareness: Most of the population is often in doubt or completely ignorant of some of the early signs of cancer, hence postponing the point to consult a doctor.
2. Limited knowledge among healthcare providers: Some primary healthcare staff may not be well trained to identify conditions related to cancer or advise the right procedures when conducting a diagnosis. 
3. Accessibility issues: Specific diagnostic and treatment services are still a way off from reaching common man mainly because of geographical or other logistical and infrastructural constraints.
4. Financial constraints: Inferior health literacy may delay action because of the high costs of care, diagnostic tests, or treatment.
5. Quality and efficiency gaps: Delay can happen from long waiting list, errors in diagnosis, complex administrative processes and unclear channelising system.
6. Psycho-social barriers: Sometimes, patients may fail to seek appropriate help because of anxiety, or stigmatisation, or stress.

These obstacles can greatly increase the risks of early detection and appropriate treatment of cancer.

Measures to follow for maintaining optimal health

• Just like renewing our insurance policies, regular screenings are essential in maintaining health. 
• Timely vaccinations provide necessary protection against preventable diseases.
• Making a healthier lifestyle choice contributes to long-term wellness.
• One should enrol in a risk assessment program to determine risk factors and determine the prevention plans accordingly with healthcare provider.
• Personalised advice from healthcare providers to tailor care to individual care.

What are the benefits of going for regular screening and health checks?

• Regular screening provides the scope to detect the silent conditions which remain asymptomatic until it has progressed to a more severe stage
• Early detection allows healthcare providers to decide on personalised treatment plans depending on the individuals risks and traits.
• Early diagnosis of cancer and the right intervention lower long-term costs, reducing the need for expensive treatment.

The ability to detect cancer at an early stage, when tumours are still localised remains the best strategy for successful treatment and increased overall survival rates.

-Content partner Happiest Health