Residents of Altai Krai extend their cancer treatment duration unnecessarily.
Cancer Detection Often Occurs During Routine Examinations in Altai Region
Residents in the Altai region are advised to prioritize regular health check-ups and screenings to help identify potential health risks, including cancer. According to the Biysk Central Hospital's Telegram channel, nearly a quarter of cancer cases are discovered through these routine examinations.
Dr. Igor Vikhlyanov, the chief oncologist of the Altai Ministry of Health, emphasizes that many cancer diagnoses are made in individuals who appeared to be in good health initially. Delayed screenings can significantly impact early detection.
For instance, a 65-year-old man named Sergei discovered a small growth on his right leg, roughly two centimeters, with rough skin. Despite its concerning appearance, he refrained from seeking medical advice due to fear of amputation. Over nearly a year, the tumor grew to eight centimeters, and by the time he consulted doctors, it had advanced significantly.
Initially, doctors presumed the growth was benign and prescribed medications unrelated to cancer. However, the treatments were ineffective, and eventually, Sergei was referred to the Altai Regional Oncological Dispensary in Barnaul.
Dr. Irina Zakharova, an oncologist at the dispensary, expressed shock upon examining Sergei's tumor, which had grown to an alarming 20 centimeters. A diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma was made, although the cancer had not metastasized. However, due to extensive bone destruction, amputation was the only viable treatment option.
Sadly, this type of skin cancer is considered one of the most favorable in oncology, as it grows slowly and is typically curable if detected early.
Effective cancer detection mechanisms are available within the Altai region's primary healthcare system, including regular screenings and preventive examinations. A screening program is offered every three years starting at age 18, and annually from age 40. Citizens may also opt for an annual preventive examination. For more information on preventive diagnostics, consultation with a local general practitioner or visit to a local clinic is advised.
- Regular skin care checks should be part of residents' health-and-wellness routines in the Altai region to help identify potential skin-care issues that might lead to conditions like skin cancer.
- Chronic diseases, such as cancer, can exist undetected in seemingly healthy individuals, emphasizing the importance of regular medical-condition screenings to ensure early detection and treatment.
- Delayed screenings for chronic diseases like cancer can significantly impact the treatment outcome, as the case of Sergei demonstrates, where advanced squamous cell carcinoma, a typically curable type of cancer when detected early, required amputation due to delayed screening and diagnosis.
