Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by admin
Nothing in the world matters more than your well-being, and screening tests are one of the most efficient ways of ensuring your health. It is virtually impossible to detect most common diseases in their early stages by only relying on the appearance of symptoms. Therefore, disease testing is a guaranteed method of keeping your annual health checks on track. Interested? Let’s dig deeper into what screening tests are and how some common tests are carried out.
Table of Contents
What are Screening Tests?
Screening tests are carried out to detect potential diseases or disorders in people who do not exhibit apparent symptoms of a disease. Although they are not considered diagnostic, screening tests expose the need for additional testing. They are also conducted for a reduction in the risk of illness and lifestyle surveillance. Screening test can prove life-saving by detecting of diseases in the early stages.
What is the Significance of Screening Tests?
Screening tests remove confusion and ambiguities revolving around the presence or absence of potential medical problems. Although not 100 percent is accurate, they are instrumental in preventing and diagnosing various ailments, including cancer.
What Are Some Common Screening Tests, And How Are They Carried Out?
Medical professionals suggest screening tests depending upon the age, medical history, and overall health of an individual. You can get the best medical advice from professionals and specialists at CURA4U with the added benefit of telehealth and online appointment booking. Book your slot according to your schedule at their website right now!
Different kinds of screening tests are carried out differently. Let us look into some typical examples.
Diabetes Detection Test
The Diabetes detection test is one of the most common screening tests around the globe. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that all individuals above the age of 45 be screened for diabetes or prediabetes, irrespective of their weight, medical history, or family background. A glucose measuring test is an effortless procedure carried out by a single drop of blood, which can be obtained with the simple prick of a finger. Specialized machines are available for diabetes testing, which calculate the blood glucose level in a sample within minutes.
Fecal Occult Blood Test
A fecal occult blood test detects the presence of hemoglobin (or blood) in stool as it may indicate cancerous growth of colorectal cancer. This screening test requires three stool samples to be submitted by a patient, which is then observed under a microscope for traces of blood. However, blood in the stool can also be due to non-cancerous factors such as hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal bleeding, medications, or even specific food items.
Pap Test
Pap Test is also known as Pap Smears, which are traces of cells taken from the cervix in women. This is a common and vital screening test conducted in sexually active women below the age of 65 and detects cellular changes that may hint at cervical cancer. This test is carried out in a gynecological pelvic exam where a tool known as a speculum is inserted for examination into the vagina. A small spatula or brush is commonly used to take a sample of the cervical cells for testing. It is pivotal to note that a Pap test is not just conducted in women suspected of having cervical cancer.
Cholesterol Measuring Test
Cholesterol testing is another prevalent test carried out via a blood sample. The sample’s high and low-density lipoprotein (bad and good cholesterol, respectively) level is analyzed to detect impending cardiovascular or other diseases.
Overview
Screening tests are an essential tool for identifying common diseases early, allowing for prompt intervention and better health outcomes. However, it can be not very clear for individuals to know what tests they need and how to conduct them properly. Here is a unique overview on how to do a screening test for common diseases:
Step 1: Understand the importance of screening tests for common diseases. Regular screening tests can help catch diseases early when they are most treatable. Many common diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer, have few early symptoms.
Step 2: Determine which screening tests are recommended for your age and gender. The recommended screening tests vary depending on your age, gender, and medical history. Consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine which tests are proper for you.
Step 3: Prepare for the screening test. Follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider provides, such as fasting before a blood test.
Step 4: Conduct the screening test. This may involve providing a urine or blood sample or undergoing a physical exam. Follow any instructions provided by your doctor or healthcare provider.
Step 5: Discuss the results with your doctor or healthcare provider. Your doctor may recommend further testing or treatment if the screening test indicates a potential problem.
