Whole-body scans and long tumour-marker panels are heavily advertised. Most of them are not screening tests. Here is what the evidence supports.
Breast cancer
Clinical breast examination from age 30 and a mammogram every one to two years from 40 to 45 onwards. Ultrasound is a useful addition in dense breasts, which are common in Indian women. Self-examination is not a substitute but does help you notice change.
Cervical cancer
HPV testing every five years, or a Pap smear every three years, from age 30 to 65. This is the one screening programme that can very nearly eliminate a cancer. HPV vaccination before adolescence prevents it upstream.
Oral cancer
Critically important in India given tobacco and areca-nut use. A visual and physical examination by a dentist or physician once a year for anyone who chews or smokes. Look out for a non-healing ulcer or a white or red patch lasting more than three weeks.
Colorectal cancer
From age 45–50: a faecal immunochemical test annually, or a colonoscopy every ten years. Earlier if a first-degree relative was affected.
Lung cancer
Low-dose CT annually for heavy smokers aged 50–80. Not recommended for non-smokers — the false positives cause more harm than good.
What we do not recommend
Routine tumour markers such as CA-125 or CEA in healthy people, and whole-body PET or MRI as a general check-up. They generate incidental findings that lead to anxiety, more scans and occasionally unnecessary biopsies, without improving survival.
The most useful appointment
Twenty minutes with a physician to map your family history and personal risk factors will tell you more about which tests you actually need than any package can.
