Cancer often develops silently in the body, showing little to no symptoms in its early stages. This is why doctors stress the importance of timely screening and medical tests. In a recent Instagram video, Dr Tarang Krishna explained how certain blood-based tumour marker tests may help in identifying possible risks early, even before clear symptoms appear.
He highlighted that many people worry about cancer but are unsure about how testing works. According to him, there are specific tumour marker tests that doctors may recommend in selected cases. These tests are not used for final diagnosis alone but act as supportive tools to guide further investigation and monitoring.
Key Tumour Marker Tests Explained By Doctor
Dr Tarang Krishna shared five important markers that are commonly used in medical evaluation:
- CA-125 is often linked with ovarian cancer risk and may help detect early warning signs in some cases.
- CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) can rise in certain cancers and may increase as the disease progresses.
- CA 15-3 is mainly associated with breast cancer and is useful when a lump or abnormal change is noticed in the breast.
- CA 72-4 is connected to stomach and colon-related cancers and may be suggested when persistent digestive issues are present.
- CA 19-9 is used in evaluating pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers, especially when symptoms continue without a clear cause.
Doctors usually recommend these tests based on symptoms, clinical examination, and medical history. They are not standalone proof of disease, but help in identifying when further investigation is needed.
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Cancer Screening: What Experts Say About Tumour Markers
Medical experts emphasise that tumour markers should always be interpreted carefully. According to the American Cancer Society, most tumour markers are not suitable for general population screening because they can sometimes give false positives or negatives. Instead, they are best used for monitoring known cases or supporting diagnosis alongside imaging and clinical evaluation.
This means that while such tests can provide important clues, they cannot replace proper diagnostic procedures like scans, biopsies, or physical examination.
Why Early Awareness Matters In Cancer Detection
Awareness about early testing can play a key role in improving outcomes. In many cases, cancer is more treatable when detected early. However, self-diagnosis or random testing without medical advice is not recommended.
Doctors advise that any testing related to cancer risk should always be done under expert supervision. Proper guidance ensures that results are interpreted correctly and unnecessary anxiety is avoided.
