Kansas City, KS- Cancer screenings save lives, but for older adults, deciding when to continue or stop screening is not always straightforward. On Open Mics, experts from The University of Kansas Health System and The University of Kansas Cancer Center discuss how age, overall health, family history and personal risk factors all play a role in determining which cancer screenings still offer meaningful benefit later in life. From colonoscopies and mammograms to emerging blood-based cancer detection tests, the conversation explores how doctors are working to personalize screening recommendations while helping patients balance prevention, quality of life and peace of mind.
Dr. Jessica Kalender-Rich, Geriatric Medicine Specialist, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Kalender-Rich explained the goal of cancer screening is to find cancer early.
She talks about risk versus rewards. However, how technology changes so do treatments.
She says to have honest conversations with your doctor, every story is different.
Phyllis Kalender, Patient
Phyllis sees a dermatologist yearly, mammograms, and until the age of 75, a colonoscopy.
She says that quality of life is very important, that’s one of the reasons she continues to get screenings currently. As she ages, screenings are something she might reconsider.
Dr. Nina Mathew, Clinical Oncologist, The University of Kansas Cancer Center
Dr. Mathew mentions one of the biggest things - screening is not a one size fits all. It depends on overall health and life expectancy. Also, will the patient benefit from early detection? Cancer screenings are only helpful if it will change the life of the patient.
She says cancer treatment today is very different than it was even 5 years ago.
People assume that cancer screenings just stop being necessary at a certain age.
She says certain screenings and tests themselves come with certain risks.
She talks about how people living in rural areas are now having more opportunities for cancer screening.
She discussed colonoscopy screenings vs at home stool sample mail in tests.
Dr. Dana Hawkinson, Medical Director, Infection Prevention and Control, The University of Kansas Health System.
Dr. Hawkinson discussed the Hantavirus and the risk factors locally.
He talks about how there really no danger at this point in Kansas City to the public.
He says this is not a new virus and describes the symptoms.
He says, generally, you do need close exposure within 6 feet, 15 minutes or more.
He says the incubation period for Hantavirus is longer than most, approximately 45 days.
He reminds us about the pillars of infection control and disease prevention.