Cancer Screening FAQ

Breast Cancer 

  1. Does breast cancer only occur in women? 
    • No, people of all genders can get breast cancer. 
  2. Are breast lumps always cancerous? 
    • No, many breast lumps are “benign,” which means they are not cancer. About 8 out of 10 breast lumps are benign.
    • Some lumps are cancer, which are called “malignant” breast tumors. A doctor should check any lumps or changes to find out if it is cancer.
  3. Should I do self breast exams? 
    • Yes. It is important to know how your breasts normally look and feel. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any changes.
  4. What is a mammogram? 
    • A mammogram is a special kind of x-ray that checks the breast for any changes. During the test, the breast is placed between two plates and gently pressed for a few seconds to spread the tissue. This helps the machine take a clear picture of the breast.
  5. How long does a mammogram take? 
    • The appointment takes about 30 minutes in total. Each breast will be compressed for only 10 to 20 seconds at a time. 
  6. Are mammograms painful? 
    • Mammograms can be uncomfortable, but only for a few seconds. If your breasts are sensitive, try to schedule the mammogram a week after your period.
  7. ​​At what age should women get a mammogram?
    • All women over 40 should get a mammogram, even if they have no symptoms. 
  8. What happens if my mammogram has an abnormal result? 
    • If your mammogram shows something that looks unusual, you may be called back for more tests. This usually includes a diagnostic mammogram, which takes closer pictures of the area. Sometimes, a breast ultrasound is also done.
    • After these tests, your doctor will tell you if you should: 
      • Go back to your regular mammogram schedule,
      • Watch the area and have another mammogram sooner, or
      • Have a biopsy to check if it is cancer.
  9. Why is it important to get screened early?
    • Many people with breast cancer do not have any symptoms. A mammogram can find changes in the breast years before symptoms start to show.
    • People who get screened regularly are more likely to find cancer early and have a better chance of being cured.
  10. What are some common myths about breast cancer?
    • Myth: Only people with a family history get breast cancer.
    • Fact: Most people who get breast cancer do not have a family history.
       
    • Myth: Wearing a bra can cause breast cancer.
    • Fact: Wearing a bra does not cause breast cancer.
       
    • Myth: Using antiperspirant or deodorant causes breast cancer.
    • Fact: There is no proof that deodorant or antiperspirant cause breast cancer.
       
    • Myth: All breast lumps are cancer. 
    • Fact: Many breast lumps are not cancer. But a doctor should check any lump.
       
    • Myth: Only older women get breast cancer.
    • Fact: Breast cancer is more common as people get older, but younger people can get it too.
       
    • Myth: A breast injury can cause breast cancer.
    • Fact: Injuries to the breast do not cause breast cancer.
       
    • Myth: If you feel healthy, you don’t need screening.
    • Fact: Screening tests like mammograms can find cancer before symptoms start.

Colorectal Cancer 

  1. What is the difference between colon cancer and rectal cancer?
    • Colon cancer starts in the colon, while rectal cancer starts in the rectum.
    • Colorectal cancer means cancer in either the colon or rectum.
    • The colon and rectum are parts of the large intestine. The colon takes water and salt from digested food and moves the waste to the rectum. The rectum stores the waste until it leaves the body.
  2. Is colorectal cancer common?
    • Yes, colorectal cancer is common. It is the 4th most common cancer in Pennsylvania and the 2nd most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
  3. When should I start getting screened for colorectal cancer? 
    • Most people start screening at age 45. If someone in your family has had colorectal cancer, your doctor might want you to start screening earlier.
    • Screening is important because colorectal cancer does not always cause symptoms, but it can be prevented and treated when it’s caught early.
  4. What are the screening options for colorectal cancer? 
    • There are a few ways to check for colorectal cancer. The best way is a colonoscopy, but many people start with an at-home stool (poop) test.
    • At-home options include:
      • FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) - done every year
      • FOBT (Fecal Occult Blood Test) - done every year
      • Cologuard - done every 3 years
    •  You should talk with your doctor to find out which test is best for you. 
  5. What does a positive at-home screening result mean?
    • A positive at-home result means there was blood in your poop that you can’t see. It could be caused by a polyp, which is a growth that is usually harmless and can be removed before it turns into cancer. It could also be due to other non-cancer problems such as hemorrhoids. 
    • The next step is to talk with your doctor and schedule a colonoscopy to find the cause of the bleeding.
  6. What is a colonoscopy? 
    • A colonoscopy is a test that lets doctors look inside your colon and rectum to check for polyps, cancer, and other problems. If the doctor sees polyps or other growths, they can often remove them during the test to help prevent cancer
  7. How do I get ready for a colonoscopy?
    • Before a colonoscopy, you need to clean out your colon so the doctor can see clearly. This usually means:
      • Following a special diet for a day or two, like eating only clear liquids (broth, juice, water)
      • Taking a laxative or other medicine to empty your bowels
      • Not eating solid food the day before the test.
    • Your doctor will give you instructions on exactly what to do to get ready.
  8. How long does a colonoscopy take?
    • Most colonoscopies take about 15 to 30 minutes. 
  9. What should I expect when I get a colonoscopy?
    • Before the test starts, you will get medication to help you relax and feel sleepy. During the test, the doctor uses a flexible tube with a small camera on the end to look inside your colon and rectum. This should not cause you any pain.
    • After the test, you may have some bloating or gas. This is normal and should go away within a few hours. Your doctor will check on you, explain the results, and let you know when it’s safe to go home. You will not be able to drive, so make sure someone can take you home.
  10. What are some myths about colorectal cancer? 
    • MYTH: Only older people get it.
    • FACT: Younger people can get colorectal cancer too, though it’s more common for older people.
       
    • MYTH: It always has symptoms.
    • FACT: Colorectal cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms, which is why screening is important.
       
    • MYTH: If you feel healthy, you don’t need screening.
    • FACT: Even if you feel fine, screening can catch cancer early.
       
    • MYTH: Only people with a family history get colorectal cancer.
    • FACT: Most people who get colorectal cancer don’t have a family history of it.
       
    • MYTH: Diet can prevent colorectal cancer.
    • FACT: Eating healthy helps, but screening is still needed to catch cancer early.

For Both Breast and Colorectal Cancer

  • What does it mean to get screened?
    • Getting screened means doing a test to check for a disease before you have any symptoms.
  • Is screening safe?
    • Yes, screening is safe. Screenings are done to find problems early. Getting screened early can help prevent cancer or catch it when it’s easier to treat.
  • What if I’m nervous?
    • Feeling nervous about a cancer screening is normal. You can discuss your concerns with your doctor and ask questions to better understand your options.
    • You can also text or call our support line at 215-960-1752 for any non-urgent questions you have about breast and colorectal cancer screening.
  • What if I don’t have insurance?
    • Many programs offer free or low-cost diagnostic follow-up options. Talk to your doctor about next steps to get connected.