مرکز منطقه ای اطلاع رساني علوم و فناوري - Early diagnosis and screening programs for cancer

Abstract :

The incidence of malignancy is known to increase with advancing age. The association between aging and cancer is complex and may stem from various factors including prolonged exposure to carcinogens, changes in the immune system, and the loss of tumor suppressing genes. The most common cancers are lung cancer for men and breast cancer for women. Preventative measures to reduce the risks associated with cancer and screening for early diagnosis are important. Detection of precancerous lesions can prevent the formation of cancer, while diagnosis of cancer in an early stage reduces mortality. Despite these expected benefits, the potential harm must also be considered while conducting cancer screening. Elderly individuals should be screened for common cancers, taking into account their current functional status, concomitant diseases, and possible complications of treatment