Homepage FAQs
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When should I get my first colonoscopy?
The American Cancer Society recommends men and women who are at average risk for colorectal cancer begin getting screened at 45 years old.
With regular screening, most polyps can be found and removed before they have the chance to turn into cancer. Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when it is more curable.
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How do I know if I qualify for a lung cancer screening?
Lung cancer screening isn’t appropriate for everyone. A person must meet all of the following to qualify:
- Be between 50 and 80 years old.
- Show no signs or symptoms of lung cancer.
- Have smoked within the last 15 years.
- Have smoked 20 pack-years* or more.
* A pack-year is used to describe how many cigarettes a person has smoked in their lifetime. One pack year = smoking one pack per day for one year. 1 pack = 20 cigarettes.
If you qualify, talk to your doctor to see if a lung cancer screening may be right for you.
Learn more: Early Screening for Lung Cancer Available to Those at Highest Risk
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I have a family member who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Am I at an increased risk?
A family history is among the risk factors for ovarian cancer. Share your family history with your doctor to assess your personal risk. You may be referred for genetic testing. High-risk genes such as BRCA could lead to risk-reducing surgery to remove ovaries and fallopian tubes as prevention.
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What is the most common gynecologic cancer?
Uterine cancer, aka endometrial cancer, is the most common gynecologic cancer and ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women in the U.S. Risk increases as you get older, but luckily, roughly 69% of uterine cancers are caught early, when they are most treatable.
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What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, which connects the uterus to the vagina. Most cases occur in women aged 35 to 44, with an average diagnosis age of 50. Routine Pap tests and HPV tests can help detect precancerous changes early.
Hawaii Pacific Health is proud to be the first health system in Hawaii to have earned the Integrated Network Cancer Program accreditation from the Commission on Cancer.