In the framework of World Cancer Day, which is commemorated on February 4, the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) in Yucatan guides this pathology and self-care actions that can help with early diagnosis; in addition, it informs about the various services and treatments it provides for these types of cases.
The head of the Medical Oncology Department at the High Specialty Medical Unit (UMAE) Specialty Hospital of the National Medical Center (CMN) “Ignacio García Téllez”, Dr. Wilbert Victoria Flores, explained that cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled and abnormal growth of cells in the body; these cells can form malignant tumors that destroy organs, or affect their function.
Although this condition can develop in any part of the body, the most common types include breast, lung, colon, prostate, and skin cancer. In addition, cancer can spread to other parts of the body in a process known as metastasis.
It is also important to note that cancer can occur at any age and several factors could put a person at greater risk of developing cancer, such as hereditary factors, smoking, eating poorly, not exercising, being exposed to harmful substances, or too much radiation. However, if cancer is found and diagnosed early with medical check-ups or studies, there is a chance that treatment will have better results.
“Early detection of cancer is key since identifying the disease in its early stages allows for the initiation of less invasive treatments with better results. Considering the above, the importance of having a preventive check-up at least once a year is reiterated to the population, in addition to integrating the self-examination process into their daily routine, as well as paying attention to their body, since in the event of any strange change such as the unexplained appearance of lumps, bruises, skin changes or weight loss; it is essential to go for an evaluation with health personnel,” added the specialist.
It should be noted that “IMSS has preventive medical check-ups and exams focused on all age groups in its Family Medicine Units (UMF), such as prostate antigen, which is a blood test that helps detect prostate cancer; on the other hand, there is the Pap test that allows the identification of cervical cancer; mammography that detects breast cancer early; in addition, there is staff that performs blood tests for possible cases of leukemia (cancer in the blood and bone marrow); as well as physical examinations due to other conditions,” said Dr. Victoria Flores.
Likewise, she added that at the IMSS in Yucatan, more guidance on this pathology can be requested at the PrevenIMSS Modules, located in the Family Medicine Units (UMF) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., as well as comprehensive assessments for all age groups and recommendations to strengthen health and avoid further complications.
In the case of confirmed diagnoses, he testified that Social Security offers in its second-level hospitals and in its High Specialty Medical Unit (UMAE) Specialty Hospital of the National Medical Center (CMN) “Ignacio García Téllez” in the state, specialized services that include Oncology consultations, treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, in addition to a comprehensive approach to guide patients and their families.
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