Certain cancer screenings avoidable

For the first time, consumer reports have rated cancer screening tests; while some were listed as necessary, others should be avoided.

Researchers say the average risk adults can avoid screening for pancreatic, testicular, and ovarian cancer. The tests for those diseases may not be able to detect the illness until later stages and carry risks of harm.

However, experts say there are tests that should “not” be avoided. According to Dr. Therese Bevers, M.D. at Anderson Cancer Center, "Individuals who are at average risk should talk to their doctor about screening for cervical, colorectal and breast cancer. And high risk individuals for lung cancer should consider lung cancer screenings, as there's now data that shows a substantial reduction in deaths if they get screening ct scans."

Again, the report only eliminates certain tests for people who do not have an increased risk for illness. As always, they say patients should make decisions after talking with their doctor.