Can tumor markers be used as a routine item in cancer screening?

In the process of cancer screening, tumor markers and cervical smears are often mentioned examination items. But what are their real effectiveness and accuracy?

First of all, tumor markers are a type of protein that may increase abnormally when cancer occurs. Doctors often speculate the possibility of a certain type of cancer based on the level of tumor markers. However, not all tumor markers are highly specific. For example, AFP is mainly used for screening liver cancer, while CA125, CA199, and CEA are more related to digestive system tumors, and PSA is an important indicator of prostate cancer.

However, it should be noted that the specificity of many tumor markers is not high and they are easily affected by other non-cancer factors. For example, the tumor marker CA724 may also increase when you have a cold or fever, which undoubtedly increases people's anxiety. Therefore, although tumor markers have a certain reference value in cancer diagnosis, it is not recommended to use them as routine screening items for physical examinations. For patients who are highly suspected of having a tumor, tumor marker testing is still recommended, but a comprehensive judgment should be made in combination with other clinical information.

On the other hand, cervical smears are a common examination item in female physical examinations, mainly used to rule out cervical cancer. However, the misdiagnosis rate of cervical smears is as high as 40%, and its accuracy is not ideal.

So, is there a more accurate method for cervical cancer screening? The answer is yes. Compared with traditional cervical smears, cervical TCT and HPV tests have higher accuracy and reliability. Therefore, if you want to screen for cervical cancer more accurately, it is recommended to choose cervical TCT and HPV tests.

In short, in the process of cancer screening, we need to look at the effectiveness and accuracy of various examination items rationally. Do not blindly believe in a certain examination method, but make a comprehensive judgment based on a variety of information. At the same time, regular physical examinations and screenings are important means of preventing cancer, but it is also necessary to choose appropriate examination methods and frequencies. Finally, if you have any questions about cancer screening or other health issues, it is recommended to consult a professional doctor or medical institution for accurate advice and guidance.