Many Elderly Screened for Cancer Despite Risks

Despite the guideline by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force against routine screening of elderly people to ascertain cancer risks, many senior Americans are getting screened for breast, prostate, cervical and colon cancer, a new study has revealed.

"Screening decisions should be individualized based on life expectancy, health status, an informed discussion with the patient about the potential harms and benefits, and patient values and preferences," study authors said.

Dr. Louise C. Walter, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of California, said that individualized decisions must be encouraged. Doctors must consider general health and life expectancy before recommending cancer screening.



Source: Medindia