What is a screening test and what is it good for?
A large proportion of diseases do not develop in a single moment, but rather through a slow process that can take years. It may happen that during this time you notice no symptoms. In this early (so‑called preclinical) stage the disease can still be eradicated and the process stopped. If the disease is not detected and is only noticed when symptoms appear, interventions are usually too late and often there is no possibility to reverse the process. A screening test is a procedure suitable for detecting signs indicative of disease in the early, still asymptomatic phase.
Why should it be detected early? Why isn't it enough to wait for symptoms?
Early detection of a condition means that the appropriate treatment can be given at the right time. For example, a tumor is more likely to be curable in an early stage than when it already causes symptoms and metastases.
The prevention, early detection and treatment can result in better quality of life and longer life expectancy for the patient.
Benefits of health screening
- Screening helps determine whether there is a disease or condition that was previously unknown.
- If someone in your family has had cardiovascular disease, stroke or diabetes, screening helps identify involvement in time.
- Early detection leads to early treatment. The risk of complications decreases while the chance of recovery increases.
Screening tests you can perform yourself
- Blood pressure measurement – this is probably the most common screening test and it can be performed not only by a doctor but by you as well. A device costing a few thousand forints is sufficient for testing. If you measure a high value, repeat the measurement over the next 2–3 days. If several measurements show high values, consult a doctor, as further investigations are necessary.
- Blood glucose measurement – with a simple device and test strips, the blood glucose level can be determined from a single drop of blood taken from the fingertip. Perform the measurement on an empty stomach, not after eating! If you measure a high value, repeat the measurement over the next 2–3 days. If several measurements show high values, consult a doctor, as further investigations are necessary.
- Breast self-examination – an excellent self-test for the early detection of breast cancer. If you find a lump, consult a doctor for further examinations.
More common medical screenings
- Dental check-up – every 2 years
- Eye examination – every 2 years
- Cholesterol test – this is a laboratory test in which blood cholesterol levels are determined. Your doctor will order it for obese people, smokers or regular alcohol consumers.
- Mammography – for women over 45 it should be performed every two years; if you feel a lump during self-examination you will be referred for a mammography first.
- Prostate examination – recommended every two years for men over 45.
- Gynecological screening – for women from age 21, an annual gynecological screening is recommended.
- Bone density measurement – important after menopause, especially for women. It aims at early detection of osteoporosis.
- Colorectal screening – after age 50 it is recommended to participate in screening every two years, especially if there is a family history of cancer.
Remember! A disease detected in time is more likely to be curable — a screening test can save your life!
