Regular health screenings are a powerful tool in preventing serious illnesses and catching potential health issues early. Prostate cancer, high cholesterol, and cervical cancer are among the leading health concerns that can be effectively managed if detected in time. Through routine screenings, individuals can take proactive steps toward better health, reducing risks and improving treatment outcomes. In this post, we’ll explore why these screenings matter, who should get them, and how they can save lives.
PROSTATE CANCER
BACKGROUND
Prostate cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the prostate (gland in the male reproductive system). It is the most common cancer in men. In 2024 alone, there was an estimated 299,010 new cases of prostate cancer and 35,250 deaths globally, accounting for 5.8% of all cancer deaths.
RISK FACTORS
- Age: as men age, their risk for prostate cancer increases considerably.
- Family history.
- Black race.
- Diet: diets low in vegetables and high in processed meat and saturated fat.
- Lifestyle: alcohol, smoking and sedentary.
- Obesity.
PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING (PROSTATE-SPECIFIC ANTIGEN)
Screening for prostate cancer has been shown to be useful in the early detection of this disease and subsequent patient survival. Note the following recommendations:
- Start around age 50 years, and repeat every 2-3 years.
- Men with a family history of prostate cancer can begin screening at age 40 years.
- Not recommended in men aged 75 years or older.
CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING
Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths amongst women in Nigeria. It is caused by a virus called ‘Human Papillomavirus’ through sexual transmission. Cervical cancer screening is the most important strategy in the prevention of cervical cancer.
Benefits of screening for cervical cancer
- Early detection of cervical cancer
- Improves treatment outcome for detected cases
- Cost-effective use of healthcare services
Who should be screened for cervical cancer
- All women 21 years and above
- Any woman that is sexually active irrespective of age
Preparation for the test
- The test is done outside menses.
- Avoid intercourse, douching or contraceptive cream for 24-48 hours before the test.
- Treat any pre-existing infection of the cervix before the test.
How often a woman should be screened for cervical cancer
- Every 3-5yrs from the age of 21 years to 65 years
- More frequent for those with high risk for cervical cancer
CHOLESTEROL SCREENING
Background
Cholesterol is a major nutrient derived mainly from fats and oil. It is crucial for energy utilization, hormone production, organ protection, and vitamin absorption, playing vital roles in overall body functions and health. Increased levels of cholesterol is associated with increased risk for atherosclerosis, heart diseases, stroke etc
Overall, raised cholesterol is estimated to cause 2.6 million deaths globally, slightly affecting more women than men.
In Nigeria, prevalence is 38%, with slightly more women (42%) than men (38%). Urban dwellers had a significantly higher rate (52%) compared to rural dwellers (10%). Less common in children.
Risk factors:
- Diet.
- Obesity.
- Lifestyle.
- Chronic diseases (hypothyroidism, liver disease, nephrotic syndrome).
- Medications: glucocorticoids, birth control pills containing oestrogen and progestogens.
- Family history.
Sources of cholesterol
- Animal – butter, milk, cheese, eggs, and fat of meat and fish etc.
- Plants – red palm oil, soybean oil, groundnut, sesame, coconut etc.
- Trans-fats (worst): processed foods like biscuits, cakes and cookies – often used to prolong shelf life and improve taste.
Who should be screened?
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends screening as follows:
- Fasting Lipid Profile panel every 5 years, starting at 20 years.
- More frequent assessment for those with any of the risk factors.
- Single non-fasting panel screen in children 9-14 years.
Screening may start earlier in children with a family history of high cholesterol, heart attack, stroke, or conditions like diabetes, nephrotic syndrome and obesity.
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