Levels of tumor markers may be elevated in non-cancerous diseases or normal in the late stages of cancer. For this reason, tumor marker analysis is not used in cancer diagnosis. In this respect “Izvestia” said the oncologist at the medical company SberZdorovye Suna Isakova.
“Sometimes the level of tumor markers can increase even in non-cancerous diseases. And even in advanced types of cancer, it is seen to remain within the normal range. Therefore, there is no need to perform such tests for preventive purposes. The only exception is the prostate-specific antigen tumor marker; This really helps in early detection of prostate cancer. There are measures called primary and secondary prevention of cancer. “Primary ones aim to prevent the development of diseases, and secondary ones aim to diagnose them early,” the oncologist said.
The main way to prevent cancer is a healthy lifestyle; That is, quitting smoking and alcohol, going to the solarium, weight control, balanced nutrition, using sunscreen and regular physical activity. This prevents 30 to 50% of cancer cases. It is also worth examining your skin in time to detect malignant formations. An assistant will be needed to examine the scalp and back. As for screenings, you can find out about them from your general practitioner: he will select the necessary examinations and their frequency individually.
“In addition, vaccination against human papillomavirus prevents the development of cervical cancer and vaccination against hepatitis B – liver cancer,” he added.
former oncologist named Required examinations for all men over 40 years of age.