Tumor marker levels can rise with non-cancerous illnesses or stay normal in later stages of cancer. Because of this variability, tumor marker testing is not used to diagnose cancer. This perspective is echoed by an oncologist at SberZdorovye, who explains that marker levels may not reliably indicate cancer presence or progression.
There are times when tumor markers can elevate in non-malignant conditions. Conversely, advanced cancers may still show marker levels within the normal range. For these reasons, routine tumor marker tests are not recommended for general screening. The sole notable exception is the prostate-specific antigen test, which can aid early detection of prostate cancer. Prevention strategies fall into primary and secondary categories: primary aims to prevent disease from developing, while secondary focuses on catching it early when it is more treatable, according to the oncologist.
The cornerstone of cancer prevention remains a healthy lifestyle. This includes avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, staying out of tanning beds, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, protecting the skin with sunscreen, and engaging in regular physical activity. Together, these measures have the potential to reduce cancer risk by about 30 to 50 percent. Regular skin self-checks are also important to spot malignant changes early. When in doubt, a general practitioner can guide the appropriate screenings and determine their frequency based on individual risk factors.
Vaccination plays a role in preventing certain cancers as well. Immunization against human papillomavirus lowers the risk of cervical cancer, and hepatitis B vaccination helps prevent liver cancer. Some medical guidelines recommend routine examinations for men over forty, emphasizing proactive health monitoring as part of a broader cancer prevention plan.