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Preventive Oncology by Dr.Faraz Vali

It includes nutritional and lifestyle modifications, Chemoprevention using medications like Tamoxifen or Raloxifene to lower cancer risks in high-risk individuals , Genetic testing and counseling, and lastly psychological and behavioral support  plays a vital role in lowering overall cancer risks and promoting long-term health.

Preventive oncology focuses on reducing the risk of cancer through lifestyle modifications, early screening, vaccinations, and preventive procedures. By promoting early detection and risk reduction, preventive oncology significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and survival.

Vaccination & Screening

HPV Vaccination

The HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine is a highly effective preventive measure against certain strains of HPV, which are responsible for the majority of cervical cancers and some other gynecologic and head and neck cancers.

​Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). While most HPV infections clear on their own, some high-risk strains (especially HPV 16 and 18) are linked to  Cervical cancer, Vaginal and vulvar cancers, Anal and oropharyngeal cancers and Genital warts.

Benefits

  • Prevents Cervical Cancer: Reduces the risk of cervical cancer by preventing HPV infection.

  • Protects Against Other Cancers: Provides protection against other gynecologic cancers (vaginal, vulvar) and some head and neck cancers.

  • Reduces Risk of Genital Warts: Prevents infection by low-risk HPV types that cause genital warts.

  • Long-term Immunity: Offers long-lasting protection when administered before exposure to HPV.

Cervavac and Gardasil 9 are widely used HPV Vaccines.

Pap Smear

The Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a simple and effective screening procedure used to detect abnormal cells in the cervix that may develop into cervical cancer. It is a key component of preventive oncology and plays a vital role in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.

Pap smear involves collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope to identify any precancerous or cancerous changes. It is a quick, safe, and painless procedure performed during a routine gynecologic exam.

Purpose of Pap smear

  • Detects Precancerous Changes: Identifies abnormal cervical cells (dysplasia) before they turn cancerous.

  • Early Detection of Cervical Cancer: Helps catch cervical cancer in its earliest stages, improving treatment outcomes.

  • Monitors HPV Infections: Often combined with HPV testing to check for high-risk HPV strains linked to cervical cancer.

  • Prevents Cancer Progression: Regular screening allows for early intervention, reducing the risk of advanced cancer.

Mammography

​Mammography is a specialized X-ray imaging technique used to detect and diagnose breast cancer at an early stage. It is considered the gold standard for breast cancer screening and plays a crucial role in preventive oncology by identifying tumors before they can be felt, significantly improving treatment outcomes.

Mammography uses low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissue. It can reveal Abnormal growths or masses, Microcalcifications (tiny calcium deposits) that may indicate cancer , Structural changes in breast tissue.

Women with a family history of breast cancer or genetic predispositions (BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations) can get benefit from regular mammograms.

Pet Scan

A PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan is a non-invasive imaging procedure used to detect and monitor cancer, its spread (metastasis), and treatment response. It provides detailed insights into cellular activity and metabolism, making it highly effective for diagnosing and staging gynecologic and other cancers.

PET scan uses a radioactive tracer (usually FDG – fluorodeoxyglucose) that is injected into the patient’s bloodstream. Cancer cells, due to their higher metabolic activity, absorb more of the tracer. The PET scanner detects the radioactive signals and creates detailed 3D images, highlighting areas of abnormal cell activity.

Purpose of Pet Scan

  1. Cancer Detection and Diagnosis:

    • Identifies tumors and abnormal growths.

    • Differentiates between benign and malignant lesions.

  2. Staging and Metastasis Assessment:

    • Determines if the cancer has spread to other organs.

    • Helps in precise cancer staging, which is essential for treatment planning.

  3. Monitoring Treatment Response:

    • Evaluates the effectiveness of chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy.

    • Helps detect residual or recurrent cancer.

  4. Guiding Biopsy or Surgery:

    • Locates active tumor sites for accurate tissue sampling.

    • Assists in planning cytoreductive or other complex surgeries.

BRCA Test

The BRCA test is a genetic blood test used to identify mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which significantly increase the risk of developing breast, ovarian, and other cancers. It is a preventive diagnostic tool that helps individuals and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about cancer prevention, screening, and treatment.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumor suppressor genes responsible for repairing damaged DNA and preventing abnormal cell growth.

  • Mutations in these genes can lead to uncontrolled cell division, increasing the risk of cancer.

  • Individuals with BRCA mutations have a higher lifetime risk of developing certain cancers, particularly Breast Cancer , Ovarian Cancer , Fallopian Tube and Peritoneal Cancer , Prostate and Pancreatic Cancer (in some cases)

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