Reproductive Health
By: Kenna Belew
Mammograms
A mammogram is an x-ray of a woman's breast. They are used to detect breast cancer. The purpose of a screening mammogram is to show tumors that can't be felt or seen just by looking at it. Mammograms are beneficial in that they can detect cancer early to save a persons life.
Pap Smears
A pap smear is a test that should be taken for adult women to tell if there are any problems with their reproductive system. They are beneficial because they can tell very early if there are signs of cancer. A doctor will use a tiny brush to get cells from the cervix and run tests on it to tell whether or not the potential for certain cancers is there. Once a girl turns 21, pap smears should become a regular health checkup to keep in touch with their health.
Testicular Exams
Testicular exams are used to detect testicular cancer, which is most commonly found in young men. A guy can do so on himself to check for any unusual bumps or swelling on his testicles to decide whether or not seeing a doctor is necessary. Finding testicular cancer early is the
Prostate Exams
Prostate exams are used to detect prostate cancer, commonly found in middle aged men. Getting a PSA test early will help to better detect, and therefore cure the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Sometimes, though the test is very accurate, there are "false-negative" results that indicate you do not have prostate cancer, when in fact you do.