Bob's Cancer Blog: Don't put it off

D'oh! I forgot something to include with yesterday's posting. I forgot the obvious soapbox lecture about early detection and screening. This is a perfect example of putting my money where my mouth is - had I skipped the PSA test (why would lightning strike twice in the same place - OK maybe that's not such a good phrase to use with someone who has already nearly been struck by lightning twice), this might go undetected and ignored.

This past week's news in the public media about cancer is that the number of new cases have decreased since last year by 2-3%, and especially cases of colorectal cancer (down 5%). That's great news, although for those of us already in the battle, still not quite good enough, but that will be the subject of another blog. But the key to much of the decrease is that early detection and screening can prevent cancer and can keep it from getting to an advanced stage.

So, here is the message one more time - don't put off those screening tests. Men - PSA tests, testicular self exams; women - breast self exams, mammograms, PAP smears; everyone - colonoscopies, exams for unusual moles and skin blemishes. Got any kind of family history with cancer? Be sure to tell your primary care physician so he/she can keep up with screening exams as well and maybe recommend some earlier testing than normally prescribed. And be sure to keep your family and loved ones in the loop - if you can share information, you may be able to help cancer researchers narrow down genetic causes of cancer. Still think it's too much trouble? Re-read my October 14 post ("Does cancer hurt?") and see if you still think it's a good idea to skip screening exams.