Cancer is a malignant growth or tumour caused by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division. It can spread throughout the body through the lymphatic system or the blood. Cancer can be fatal if it is not caught early and properly treated. Cancer screening is a special test given to detect the presence of cancer. Screening for breast and prostate cancer are commonly done within the National Health Service.

Breast Cancer

This is a malignant tumour in the breast. It can be detected by a physical breast examination, breast self-examination (BSE), or by a mammogram. A mammogram is an X-ray examination that can detect cancer up to 2 years before it is felt. If the cancer is detected and treated early, the symptoms can partially or completely disappear; this is referred to as remission.

Signs and Symptoms

• Hard, painless lump in breast upon examination.
• Lump or mass in the armpit.
• Change in size or shape of the breast.
• Abnormal nipple discharge (bloody or a clear-to-yellow or greenish fluid).
• Change in the colour, or feel of the skin in the breast, nipple or areola.
• Breast pain, enlargement or discomfort in one side only.

Cervical Cancer

This is cancer of the cervix and is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. It can be detected by a routine pap smear test. Regular screening with a pap smear test greatly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer that has spread to other regions of the body may cause constipation, blood in urine and abnormal opening in the cervix.

Pap smear

The pap smear is one of several tests that is routinely given at the gynaecology clinic. Also known as the pap test, the pap smear is usually done during the pelvic exam. A sample of cervical cells is collected, sent to the lab for testing. Testing reveals changes in the cells of the cervix and detects infection, abnormal cervical cells or cervical cancer.

If caught and treated early, most cervical cancers can be cured. Therefore, it is important for all women (21 years and older, or under 21 and are sexually active) to have pap smears, along with yearly pelvic exams, as part of their routine heathcare.

Preparation for Pap smear

Immediately before your pelvic exam avoid:

• Douching.
• Using tampons.
• Vaginal creams, suppositories, medicines.
• Vaginal deodorants and sprays.
• Sexual intercourse.

Signs and Symptoms

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding.
• Yellow, mal-odorous vaginal discharge.
• Lower back pain.
• Painful sexual intercourse.
• Painful urination.

If you experience any of the above, consult your healthcare provider at the local Community Health Clinic.

Prostate Cancer

The prostate is a muscular, walnut-sized gland that surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that transports urine and sperm out of the body. It is a part of the male reproductive system. The prostate secretes seminal fluid, a milky substance that combines with sperm produced in the testicles to form semen.

Adeno-carcinoma is the clinical term for cancer that begins as a tumour on the outside of the prostate gland. As it grows, it may spread to the inner part of the prostate. If identified early, and treated before the malignancy spreads too far into the gland or out into surrounding tissues, lymph nodes or bones, it can be treated successfully with a variety of medical procedures. It is strongly advised that all men 45 years and older, be screened annually for prostate cancer. During the screening, the prostate should be assessed via a rectal examination, the tumour marker and/or a test for prostate cancer.

Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA)

This is a blood test to measure prostatic specific antigens levels. The levels may rise in men who have prostate cancer, an enlargement or an infection of the prostate. It should be done in combination with a rectal exam.

Signs and Symptoms

• A need to urinate frequently, especially at night.
• Difficulty starting urination or holding back urine.
• Inability to urinate.
• Weak or interrupted flow of urine.
• Pain or burning during urination.
• Difficulty in having an erection.
• Painful ejaculation.
• Blood in urine or semen.
• Frequent pain or stiffness in lower back, hips or upper thighs.

Testicular Cancer

Cancer of the testes (the male reproductive glands) - is one of the most common cancers in men 15 to 34 years of age. If discovered in the early stages, testicular cancer can be treated promptly and effectively. Men who have un-descended or partially descended testicles are at a much higher risk of developing testicular cancer than others. Perhaps the most effective method of detecting testicular cancer early is through the Testicular Self Examination (TSE) and to visit your Community Health clinic for screening.

Testicular Self Examination (TSE)

1. Take a warm bath or shower to relax scrotal skin.
2. Roll each testicle gently between the thumb and fingers of both hands.
3. Check for lumps or nodules.
4. If lumps are found, contact the nearest Community Health clinic.

Sign and Symptoms

• Slight enlargement of one of the testes.
• Change in consistency of one of the testes.
• Dull ache in the lower abdomen and groin.
• Sensation of heaviness.

Any member of the public, can access this service.

• Contact your nearest Community Health clinic.
• Register for an appointment.
• Show up at appointed time.
• Have a seat in waiting area.
• Participate in testing and examination.
• Make follow-up appointment.
• Follow instructions given by your healthcare provider.

This may vary by facility.

These may vary by facility.

There are no fees for this service.

The Department of Public Health
Poncianna Hill Building
Meeting Street
P.O. Box N-3730
Nassau, N.P.
The Bahamas
Tel. (242) 502-4728
Fax.(242) 502-4874
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays