Cancer Screening Tips for Seniors

MediNurse, now in its 4th decade as the premier provider of private duty nursing in St. Louis, reminds the public that more than 60% of newly diagnosed cancers in the United States occur in people aged 65 and older.

It is important to follow recommendations for cancer screening tests, which are used to find cancer when there are no symptoms. Screening gives the best chance of finding cancer as early as possible.

The American Cancer Society suggests screenings for adults 65 and older. Discuss these possible screenings with your healthcare provider:

· Colon cancer testing – there are many testing options available. Medicare covers testing.

· Lung cancer testing – if you have a smoking history, your healthcare provider might recommend an annual low-dose CT scan to screen for early lung cancer. Screening may be a benefit if you are an active or former smoker (quit within the last 15 years), have no sign of lung cancer or have a 30-pack-per-year smoking history. There are benefits, limitations and risks to this screening, which your healthcare provider will discuss with you. Medicare covers testing.

For men 65 and older:

· Prostate cancer testing – overall health status, and not age alone, is important when making decisions about this screening. Men who expect to live at least 10 more years should talk to their healthcare provider about the uncertainties, risks and potential benefits of testing. Medicare covers testing.

For women 65 and older:

· Breast cancer testing – report any changes in the way your breasts look or feel to your healthcare provider right away. You should get a mammogram at least every two years. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out if you are at higher than average risk for breast cancer. You might need additional tests along with your mammograms.

· Cervical cancer testing – no testing is needed if you have had regular cervical cancer testing with normal results during the previous 10 years. No testing is needed after a hysterectomy that removed the uterus and cervix as long as it was done for reasons not related to cervical cancer. Women with a history of serious cervical pre-cancer should continue testing for 20 years after that diagnosis. Medicare covers testing.

MediNurse is St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing services. MediNurse provides services that are customized to the individual needs of the client or patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.