Healthcare Services

Cancer Screenings in Houston

Why Cancer Screenings Matter

How frequently you should undergo cancer screenings and the types of screenings you should receive will vary based on sex, age, hereditary predisposition and health history. Men and women are both susceptible to certain types of cancer at different points in their lives and should undergo routine screenings at appropriate intervals to detect cancerous and precancerous changes within the body before symptoms manifest and treatment becomes more difficult.

For example, colorectal cancer, when detected in its early stages through routine screenings such as colonoscopies, allows for doctors to create long-term treatment and management strategies based on the patient’s condition and the severity of abnormal growths or polyps in the colon.  When caught early, these polyps can be removed before they become cancerous.

At this stage, known as stage 0 or stage I, the prognosis for colorectal cancer is generally favorable, with high survival rates. However, if left undetected and untreated, colorectal cancer can progress to more advanced stages, such as stage III or stage IV. In these later stages, the cancer has often spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs, leading to a poorer prognosis and lower chances of successful treatment.

By prioritizing appropriately scheduled cancer screenings, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their health and well-being and increase their chances of overcoming cancer and achieving long-term survival.

Types of Cancer Screenings Offered

St. Hope Healthcare offers a comprehensive range of cancer screenings tailored to meet the diverse needs of our patients. Our experienced healthcare providers utilize state-of-the-art screening techniques and technologies to make sure that results are accurate and reliable.

• Mammograms: Mammograms are a crucial screening tool for detecting breast cancer in women. Our healthcare providers offer digital mammography screenings, which can detect breast abnormalities, including tumors and cysts, at their earliest stages. Regular mammograms are recommended for women starting at age 40 or earlier if they have any individual risk factors.
• Colonoscopies: Colonoscopies are recommended for the early detection of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal conditions. Our healthcare providers perform colonoscopies to examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities, such as polyps or tumors. Colonoscopies can help prevent colorectal cancer by removing precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. Screening colonoscopies are recommended for individuals starting at age 45, or earlier based on individual risk factors.
• Pap Smears: Pap smears, also known as pap tests, are used to screen for cervical cancer in women. Our healthcare providers perform pap smears during routine gynecological exams to collect cells from the cervix for examination. Pap smears can detect abnormal cervical cells early on, which allows for timely intervention and prevention of cervical cancer. Regular pap smears are recommended for women starting at age 21.
• Prostate Cancer Screenings: Prostate cancer screenings are recommended for the early detection of prostate cancer in men. Our healthcare providers offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal exams (DREs) to assess the prostate gland for abnormalities. Prostate cancer screenings are recommended for men starting at age 50, or earlier based on individual risk factors.

Access to Support and Resources

At St. Hope Healthcare, we understand that navigating cancer screenings can be stressful, and some people may not want to undergo procedures for the inconvenience, pain or embarrassment it may cause.

Our compassionate healthcare team is here to provide education, counseling and support to help patients make informed decisions about their health and well-being and not feel alone throughout the process. We also collaborate with local cancer support organizations and community resources to make sure that our patients have access to the care and assistance they need.

As a 501(c)(3) community healthcare organization, we’re committed to reducing disparities in healthcare outcomes, which we do by offering affordable screenings, preventative care and treatments for people with and without insurance. Don’t let budgetary constraints prevent you from getting the cancer screenings you need – contact a St. Hope Healthcare center near you. 

Get Your Cancer Screening at a St. Hope Healthcare Center in the Houston Area

By offering a comprehensive range of cancer screenings, St. Hope Healthcare aims to empower individuals to prioritize their health and well-being and detect cancer early on.

If you have questions about cancer screenings or would like to schedule a screening appointment, contact us at St. Hope Healthcare today or give us a call at (713) 778-1300. Your health and wellness are our top priorities and we're here to support you every step of the way.