Screening strategies for cancer: implications and results

Article Abstract:

Many physicians are beginning to screen patients for cancer but it is questionable in some cases whether screening can reduce mortality rates. While Pap smears, mammograms and occult blood tests have reduced mortality rates for cervical, breast and colorectal cancer, respectively, the same is not true for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. The use of this test has caused an increase in the incidence of prostate cancer, but mortality rates have remained unchanged. Various modifications of the test may make it more accurate. Screening for melanoma may be beneficial, since it is linked to large dysplastic moles which can easily be seen.

Editorial, Diagnosis, Prostate cancer, Medical screening, Health screening, Melanoma, Prostate-specific antigen, Prostate specific antigen

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Oncology

Article Abstract:

More genes are being discovered that play some role in the development of certain cancers. The DPC4 gene is involved in pancreatic cancer and the FHIT gene is involved in kidney, esophageal, stomach, colon, lung and breast cancer. The Human Genome Project should finish sequencing the human genome by 2005. This will aid the discovery of genes involved in cancer. Research is progressing on the mechanisms underlying apoptosis, which is a form of cell death. The discovery of genes that predispose to cancer raises the possibility of genetic screening.

Research, Physiological aspects, Genetic aspects, Cell death, Cancer, Human Genome Project, Cancer genetics, Oncology

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