FAQs

Cancer screening refers to the process of testing individuals who are asymptomatic (showing no signs or symptoms) for the early detection of cancer or pre-cancerous conditions. The aim of cancer screening is to identify cancers at an early stage when they are more treatable and may have a better chance of a favorable outcome. Screening tests are typically performed on individuals who are considered to be at average risk for a particular type of cancer. These tests are different from diagnostic tests, which are conducted when someone shows symptoms or has an abnormal finding that requires further investigation.

The network of CancerScreening.CA nurses and physicians will provide support, advice, screening test requisitions, test results interpretation, consultation referrals, schedule follow-ups, and future reminders - all to improve early detection rates and reduce barriers to healthcare access.

Currently, CancerScreening.CA is offering screening for breast, colon, and lung cancer.

The OurCare national survey estimated in 2022 that more than one in five Canadian adults – 6.5 million people – do not have a family physician (FP) or nurse practitioner (NP) they can see regularly for care. Unfortunately, many people still face barriers to accessing cancer screening services, including long clinic wait times, travel difficulties, and lack of access to longitudinal care providers. CancerScreening.CA was founded to provide easy and convenient access to cancer screening tests to as many Canadians as possible.

A Pap test is the current standard screening test for cervical cancer and requires an in-person visit. CancerScreening.CA is a virtual clinic (i.e., no physical office available to patients) and, therefore, cannot offer cervical cancer screening. However, there are ongoing advancements in cervical cancer screening with novel methods being explored, such as "HPV Self-Sampling". Self-sampling kits allow women to collect their own vaginal or cervical samples for HPV testing. This method aims to improve accessibility and increase screening rates, particularly in underserved populations or areas with limited healthcare infrastructure. CancerScreening.CA intends to offer cervical cancer screening once such a test can be offered by a virtual clinic.

Ovarian cancer screening is a complex topic, and the available evidence is still evolving. Currently, there is no widely accepted screening test for ovarian cancer that is recommended for the general population.

Prostate cancer screening is a complex topic, and the available evidence is still evolving. Currently, there is no widely accepted screening test for prostate cancer that is recommended for the general population. Regular PSA tests are not recommended for everyone. However, if you do have PSA tests, the important things are the change in the PSA level over time and how fast it is changing.

Please click here to book an appointment.

Being transgender can have implications for cancer screening, as it may impact the organs or tissues that are typically screened for specific types of cancer. It's important to note that transgender individuals have a diverse range of medical histories and healthcare needs, so it's crucial to consider each person's individual circumstances and consult with a healthcare professional who is knowledgeable about transgender healthcare and cancer screening. Click here for a few considerations regarding cancer screening for transgender individuals.