What medical diagnostics should be performed annually?

The contribution of radiology and its many techniques is very important because, according to many studies, it increases life expectancy and reduces mortality.

As Kyriakos Stringaris, Emeritus Professor of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Athens, Honorary President of the Hellenic Radiological Society, especially emphasizes, “There are diagnostic methods that men and women need to undergo every year“.
“From a mature age Annual ultrasound of the upper and lower abdomen is very important and prevents many diseases, especially in the abdominal area. During this examination, we see the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and internal genital organs in women who are at risk of ovarian cancer (a cancer that goes completely unnoticed and is often diagnosed at a terminal stage).

And for men this examination is important, since in such organs as kidneys and prostate in older age, many diseases are prevented, especially prostate cancer. If detected by ultrasound or clinical examination, as well as if elevated PSA is detected, instead of a biopsy, as was done until recently, multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging. However, along with imaging tests, general blood tests are also necessary, says Mr. Stringaris. “In adulthood, a chest x-ray should be taken to provide a guideline, and then this can be done every three years or as symptoms persist.”

According to the professor, all women from low and high risk groups (those with a history or suspicion of gene mutations) are prescribed breast ultrasound at the age of 30 years as a reference, as well as mammography at the age of 40 years. “And then every year there is a mammogram, always in combination with an ultrasound of the mammary glands. If ultrasound reveals calcifications, whether they are benign or malignant is unclear, then MRI mammography solves the problem.”

Contribution computed tomography is important, and this is what the American Lung Society has been recommending for many years for smokers over 40 years of age, states the honorary president of the Hellenic Society of Radiology, emphasizing: “EIf we detect a small lung cancer at an early stage that has not spread and operate on the patient, his life will be saved. And now the Ministry of Health has recognized this opportunity, and is soon going to introduce high-definition X-rays and low doses of radio energy into screening“

Concerning colonoscopywhich is considered the only gold standard for diagnosing colon cancer, the professor emphasizes that her it is necessary to carry out prophylactic treatment every five years after 45 years, and if there is a medical history, you can start at 35 years. “If polyps are detected, the doctor will decide whether the examination will be carried out earlier than in five years. However, if someone is unable to perform a regular colonoscopy, they have the option of having a virtual colonoscopy, i.e. axial colonoscopy, where by “running” reconstructions of images inside the intestine, doctors can see if there is a lesion. However, in this case it is impossible to do a biopsy.

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