i went to my doctor and asked if i can get a cancer test because i m scared if i have it and he said that i dont need 1. why did he say that instead of just givin me 1?
2007-06-28 14:39:22 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Cancer
Simple, because there is no one test for cancer. Testing is specific for the type of cancer and location of cancer. Also, there are specific symptoms related to cancer...no matter where in the body it is...and if you are not exhibiting any of those symtpoms, chances are slim that you have cancer.
A fear of cancer is not a reason to run testing. Many cancer tests are invasive, painful and expensive. Also, if done unnecessarily, your insurance will not pay for them. There must be documented data on why the test was ordered with symptoms to back up the order. Stop worrying about something that you are afraid you might get. If this worry is disturbing your life, I suggest you seek the help of a psychiatrist to deal with your unreasonable fear.
2007-06-28 15:02:00 · answer #1 · answered by ilse72 7 · 5⤊ 0⤋
Well first off, there are many types of cancer and there are common and identifiable symptoms which pertain only to cancer patients and your doctor sounds proficient (and smart) enough to know that he/she can diagnose 80-90% of conditions and illnesses through careful visual examination and conversing with the patient.
Typically, tests for cancer include a biopsy of the suspected tissue for tests which include cell examination. If you are not specific with what is ailing you, a doctor will certainly not order a biopsy for random parts of your body- it is unethical, unreasonable and expensive for you! :)
Read the wikipedia link I included for more information on cancer.
2007-06-28 14:51:25 · answer #2 · answered by noonenowhere23 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
is there a specific kind of cancer that you're concerned about? some cancers seem to run in some families - there can be genetic markers that a test can screen for (my sister had this done for breast cancer)
it is very expensive, often insurance doesn't cover it, and if you are found to have the marker and later develop that cancer then some insurance companies deny claims based on pre-existing conditions
if you thoroughly discussed your family history, current health, risk factors with your doctor and he/she is not concerned then you need to make sure you understand why dr feels you are at low risk - if you didn't have a thorough discussion and are concerned, then you should schedule a follow-up
2007-06-28 14:50:14 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
sometimes doctors have ways of screening for cancer without doing the actual test. if he doesn't see any reason to suspect cancer maybe he just doesn't want to put your through the ordeal of a test or the expense. also if there is no suspicion of cancer your insurance may not pay for it. you should ask him his reasons tell him why you supect you have cancer. communication between patient and doctor is really important
2007-06-28 14:51:35 · answer #4 · answered by Diana K 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A cancer screening test is very expensive and your insurance will not pay for it. Your doctor has to have a reason for you to refer you for a body scan. However, you can get a body scan and pay it out of your own pocket.
2007-06-28 19:44:46 · answer #5 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋