At Northeast Georgia Medical Center, we believe that early detection is essential in the fight against cancer. Our advanced screening and diagnostic services allow us to detect cancers at their earliest, most treatable stages. Using state-of-the-art technology, we offer a wide range of modalities tailored to each type of cancer, ensuring that you receive the most accurate diagnosis possible.
We recommend you talk to your primary care provider to confirm which screenings are right for you and the best process to get them scheduled
What is cancer screening?
Cancer screening involves testing for early signs of cancer before symptoms develop or at the onset of symptoms. Detecting cancer at its earliest stages makes it easier to treat. If your healthcare provider recommends a screening test, it is often a proactive step based on your risk factors, not necessarily an indication of cancer.
Benefits of Cancer Screening
- Detect changes that may indicate the presence of cancer.
- Find cancer early, often before it spreads.
- Increase the likelihood of successful treatment.
Common Cancer Screening Tests
At Northeast Georgia Medical Center we offer a range of screening tests designed to detect most cancer types and inform ongoing care.
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death among women. NGMC provides mammograms and breast imaging, which offers enhanced imaging for earlier detection, when the chances of long-term survival are highest. A screening mammogram is recommended for all women age 40 and over. Depending on your level of risk, your doctor may recommend screening every 1 – 2 years.
NGMC provides colorectal cancer screening, including colonoscopy, stool-based tests like FOBT and FIT, and flexible sigmoidoscopy, to detect issues early. Colonoscopies are recommended starting at age 45 unless your doctor recommends you start earlier due to your risk factors. The frequency of a colonoscopy depends on colonoscopy findings, but should occur every 5-10 years.
Blood tests, imaging and biopsies provided at NGMC can detect cancers of the thyroid, adrenal glands and other hormone-producing glands. Early detection allows more aggressive treatment of these less common but serious endocrine cancers.
We focus on the early detection of gynecological cancers, including ovarian, cervical, and uterine cancer. Our screening methods, such as Pap smears and HPV testing, help identify cervical cancer early, while pelvic exams and imaging techniques are utilized for other gynecological conditions. Maintaining a regular appointment with a gynecologist is critical to the early detection and prevention of gynecological cancers. Pap smears should be starting at age 21 with repeat screening every three to five years.
A lung cancer screening is recommended in those with a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. Find out your pack year. A Low-Dose CT of the chest uses less radiation to create cross-sectional images of the lungs. We recommend an annual Low-Dose CT scan for those at risk as above from 50 to 80 years old. Our team offers advanced diagnostics and treatment options, including ion robotic bronchoscopy and robotic lung surgery, to ensure comprehensive lung cancer care if needed.
We offer prostate cancer screening services that include the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and digital rectal examinations (DRE) to help detect abnormalities and assess risk.
Skin cancers, basal cell and squamous cell, are the most common cancers in the world. Most of the time, these skin cancers are caught early and are easily treated. Melanoma skin cancers are less common but are more likely to spread and grow to other parts of your body.
People of color are at lower risk of developing skin cancer, but all skin types can develop skin cancer. Additionally, skin cancers are often diagnosed in later stages in people of color. So, it is important for people of all skin colors and types to have a skin cancer screening, especially if you notice any changes in your skin. Skin cancer screenings involve full-body skin exams to detect abnormal moles or lesions that may indicate melanoma or other forms of skin cancer. Early detection is key, especially for high-risk individuals.
What to Expect from Your Cancer Screening Journey
At Northeast Georgia Medical Center, we understand that undergoing cancer screening can be an emotional experience, and we are here to support you every step of the way. From the initial screening test to diagnosis and potential treatment, our team is there
After your screening test, your healthcare provider will review the results and explain any findings. While most results come back normal, if something unusual is detected, it does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Your provider will discuss the next steps and recommend further diagnostic tests, if needed.
If a screening indicates abnormal results, our advanced cancer diagnostic services provide clarity. We may recommend additional imaging, biopsies or laboratory tests to gather more detailed information. At NGMC we offer the latest technology, such as MRI, CT, and PET scans, to deliver fast and accurate diagnostics. Our pathology team works swiftly to provide the results, allowing your care team to make informed decisions.
If cancer is diagnosed, NGMC ensures you will not face this journey alone. Our experienced cancer physicians will work closely with you to develop a personalized cancer treatment plan. Whether your journey involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or other treatments, our goal is to provide the highest quality care while addressing both your medical and emotional needs.
Our Multidisciplinary Approach to Cancer Treatment
NGMC takes a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, meaning that specialists from various fields collaborate to ensure that every aspect of your experience is coordinated. These specialists work closely with our support staff to deliver the best possible outcomes. You will also have access to patient navigators who can assist with everything from transportation to appointments to providing emotional support.
Choose NGMC for Cancer Screening and Diagnostics
At Northeast Georgia Medical Center our highly trained team of board-certified cancer doctors work together to provide accurate screening, diagnosis, and treatment. With expertise in treating various types of cancer, our multidisciplinary approach ensures that you receive care designed for you. We are dedicated to offering compassionate, state-of-the-art care at every step of your journey.
Contact us today
For more information about Cancer Services available at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center, call 770-219-8815.