“In order to detect certain types of cancer in its early stages, it is essential to have regular preventive exams, even when people are in good health. Around 70,000 Peruvians are diagnosed with cancer every year. Getting an early diagnosis can save thousands of lives”, says Dr. Mauricio León, director of the League Against Cancer, president of the Peruvian Society of Surgical Oncology and head of our Mastology service, who tells us what tests can help us to identify this dreaded disease in time.

• Papanicolaou / Viral test. This test detects precancerous and cancerous lesions in the cervix. It is recommended that all women undergo this test annually once they start their sexual life, since cervical cancer is the most frequent cancer in Peruvian women.
• Mammography. It is crucial for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. An annual mammogram should be performed starting at age 40, or earlier if there is a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
• Colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer affects both men and women. It is important to have this test every 5 years to detect abnormalities, accompanied by the fecal occult blood test (Thevenon’s test). It is recommended to start having this test annually from the age of 45.
• Upper endoscopy. It is the most commonly used procedure for the diagnosis of stomach cancer. It allows direct observation of the stomach mucosa and evaluation of the existence of lesions.
• Chest X-ray. Due to the increase in cigarette smoking among women, it is necessary to have this test at least once a year to rule out any lung disease, such as lung cancer.

Remember:

Prevention is key in the fight against cancer!

Dr. Mauricio León
Director of the League Against Cancer, president of the Peruvian Society of Surgical Oncology and head of our Mastology service