Cancer Screening covers the tests with strong evidence — mammography, cervical (Pap/HPV), colorectal, lung — versus the over-marketed ones with weaker support. Our doctors and editorial team explain India's screening guidelines, when to start and when to stop, what each test can and cannot detect, and how to interpret an abnormal finding.
Last reviewed: 11 August 2026
Colon cancer symptoms include abdominal fullness, excessive gas, and pain. Other symptoms include rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal discomfort, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and bright red blood in the stool. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.
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Here we are highlighting the increased cervical cancer risks in females with multiple childbirths, multiple sexual partners, and early marriage. Symptoms include postmenopausal bleeding, irregular bleeding, chronic vaginal discharge, and foul-smelling bleeding. Get yourself screened with LBC+HPV testing to detect cervical cancer early.
Ashwin Tamhankar on Instagram: "United by Unique: Fighting Cancer Together 🎗️This World Cancer Day, let’s stand united in the fight against cancer. From precaution and early diagnosis to advanced robotic treatments, every step matters.Dr. Ashwin Tamhankar, Consultant Urological Cancer & Robotic Surgeon, emphasizes that cancer care isn’t just medical it’s a collective effort. If we truly want to make this experience unique, we must come together!Early detection saves lives. Awareness creates change. Unity fuels progress.#ProstateCancer#ProstateCancerAwareness#BladderCancer#BladderCancerAwareness#KidneyCancer#KidneyCancerAwareness#RoboticSurgery#RoboticSurgeryForCancer#TesticularCancer#PenileCancer#AdrenalCancer"
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The relationship between ulcers and cancer has been a topic of medical research for many years.
Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach.
Brachytherapy is a specialized form of radiation therapy used in the treatment of cervical cancer.
Stomach ulcers are a common gastrointestinal issue that can cause discomfort and complications if left untreated.
Cervical cancer is a significant health concern worldwide, with a complex pathophysiology involving various genetic, environmental, and viral factors.
Cervical cancer is a significant health concern for women globally, including in India. Fortunately, the availability of the cervical cancer vaccine has provided a crucial tool in the fight against this disease.
Upper back pain can be a concerning symptom, leading many to wonder if it could be indicative of a serious condition like cancer.
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Verified specialists across India
The best-evidence screenings: cervical cancer (Pap smear or HPV test), breast cancer (mammography for age 40-45+), colon cancer (colonoscopy or FIT test from 45-50), and — for high-risk smokers — lung cancer (low-dose CT from age 50-80). Others (prostate PSA, oral cavity in tobacco users, skin) are used in specific populations. Not every cancer has an effective screening test.
Cervical: 25-30. Breast (clinical exam yearly): 30. Mammography: 40-45 (earlier for family history). Colon: 45-50. Prostate discussion: 45-50 for higher-risk, 50 for average risk. Family history changes these ages — first-degree relatives with cancer usually mean starting 10 years before their diagnosis age. Discuss with your doctor.
Yes. Over-screening (like annual full-body scans for healthy adults) turns up incidental findings that lead to biopsies, procedures, and anxiety without improving cancer outcomes. The specific screenings recommended at specific ages are based on evidence they improve survival more than the harms they cause. More testing isn't automatically better care.
An abnormal screening usually means more targeted testing (biopsy, additional imaging), not automatic cancer. Most abnormal screenings turn out to be false alarms or benign findings. The anxiety between screening and confirmation is real — a good clinician explains what happens next clearly. Don't wait weeks worrying without asking your doctor for an updated timeline.
If you have a strong family history (multiple close relatives with the same or related cancers, cancer at young ages, or specific patterns like ovarian and male breast cancer), yes. A genetic counsellor helps decide which tests, interpret results, and plan follow-up. Positive results change screening ages, methods, and sometimes lead to preventive interventions. Not everyone needs testing — pattern matters.
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