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Early Detection

Cancer occurs when abnormal cellular activity produces a tumor or growth in the body. For certain cancers, screening tests can detect cancerous or pre-cancerous changes at an early stage, allowing prompt treatment and the increased likelihood of a postive outcome. Early detection through regular screening examinations saves lives by identifying cancers when they are most curable and treatment is most likely successful. Cancers that can be detected through early screening include breast, colon, rectum, cervix, prostate, testis, oral cavity, and skin. Early detection of certain cancers, however, is not without risk; each cancer site should be addressed individually.

Goal: Increase early detection and appropriate screening for cancer

Objectives:

  • By 2014, increase the percentage of women aged 40 and older who receive annual breast cancer screening from 62 to 67 percent as measured by the Indiana Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
  • By 2014, increase the percentage of adults aged 50 and older who receive risk based colorectal cancer screening (sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy) and follow-up using accepted professional guidelines from 59 percent to 67 percent as measured by the Indiana Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
  • By 2014, increase the percentage of men aged 40 and older who have had an individual discussion with their health care providers regarding the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screening from 49 percent to 57 percent as measured by the Indiana Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
  • By 2014, increase the percentage of women aged 18 and older who have had a Pap smear in the last three years from 79 percent to 87 percent as measured by the Indiana Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
  • (Developmental) By 2014, reduce barriers to screening and diagnostic services for disparate populations. Potential data sources: Indiana Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, U.S. Census 2000 and 2010.

NOTE: All strategies can be found in the specified section of the Indiana Cancer Control Plan.

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