The Importance of Getting Screened for Cancer as You Age
Among the many challenges associated with aging, an increased incidence of cancer is common. This is because our cells can become damaged over time as we age. Often this damage can be repaired by our body, but sometimes it builds up and can cause cells to grow and multiply, leading to cancer.
Older individuals need to continue recommended cancer screenings. Regular screenings can improve outcomes by detecting cancers in more treatable stages before they have a chance to spread. Unfortunately, few cancers have tests that can do so, except for a few in places such as the breasts, colon, cervix, prostate, and lungs. But, thanks to the Galleri test, there’s a game-changing technique to catch more than 50 kinds of cancer in one simple blood test.
At New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (NYCBS), this prescription-only blood test is offered to adults with an elevated risk for cancer by age, family history, lifestyle, or exposure to known carcinogens. The Galleri test is intended to be used in addition to, and not replace, other cancer screening tests. The Galleri test finds DNA that tumor cells release into the bloodstream as they die and replicate. It spots markers on DNA shed by tumor cells and feeds that data into a machine-learning algorithm to detect whether cancer is present and in which organ.
“A positive test will guide the patient and physician towards further directed testing that helps diagnose an otherwise occult early cancer and enables earlier treatment that may be lifesaving,” said Dr. Harry Staszewski, Chief Medical Officer of NYCBS. “This test complements standard screening tests and is not recommended for patients with symptoms or the common warning signs of cancer. Instead, those persons need to see their doctor immediately.”
With cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and additional scientific advancements in cancer care to treat every type of cancer, NYCBS can provide world-class, patient-centered affordable care to patients with cancer and blood disorders in their communities, close to family and friends.
For more information on Galleri or to make an appointment, call NYCBS at 631-751-3000 or visit nycancer.com.