Early signs of cancer can be subtle or absent, which is why early detection often relies on routine screening rather than waiting for symptoms. When a tumor is found at an initial stage, the likelihood of a full recovery is high, exceeding 90 percent in many cases. Dr. Pavel Koposov, deputy director at the European Medical Center Institute of Oncology, explains how tumors can be identified early and why screening matters.
According to the expert, most cancers are not diagnosis at the outset; they are detected at later stages in many people. The only reliable way to catch cancer early is through regular screening or incidental findings during examinations performed for other health concerns. This means that proactive testing and awareness play a crucial role in improving outcomes.
Over the past five to ten years, there has been noticeable progress in the early diagnosis of cancer. People have become more attentive to their health, participate in scheduled checkups, and often move toward healthier lifestyles. This shift in behavior helps pave the way for earlier interventions when needed.
The doctor notes that among the most common cancers in many populations are lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and cervical cancer. Early detection for these diseases relies on targeted screening made for each cancer type and age group. For breast cancer, annual mammography is advised; for cervical cancer, regular gynecological exams are recommended; for prostate cancer, PSA testing is considered for men in the 40s to mid-40s. For lung cancer, low-dose CT scans can be informative, particularly in higher-risk groups. A recent example from the COVID-19 period showed how broader CT screening could reveal early lung cancers and save lives when used appropriately and with medical supervision.
There has also been an uptick in early oncology detection as patients participate in broader health studies and collaborative research. While no test can guarantee catching every cancer in its earliest stage, closer health monitoring increases the odds of detecting tumors at stages 1 or 2, when treatment is generally more effective.
In summary, maintaining regular health surveillance and following recommended screening schedules—especially for individuals with a family history of these cancers—improves the chances of successful treatment. Early detection remains the best strategy, even though cancer can remain asymptomatic in its initial phases. A proactive approach to health checkups and screenings can lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes for more people.
Previously published information discussed the types of cancer most commonly found during pregnancy.