Cancer Screening

Cancer screening is an important part of preventive healthcare. It can catch potential problems before symptoms even appear. At Yunella Women’s Health in the Mid City West area of Los Angeles, California, board-certified OB/GYN David Kim, MD, PhD, is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and expert care for women through every stage of life. He supports your unique health journey with empathy, clinical excellence, and a deep understanding of your needs. Learn more by calling the office today or booking online.

What is cancer screening in women’s health?

Cancer screening is the process of checking for cancer before any symptoms appear. At Yunella Women’s Health, screenings are a vital part of preventive care because they allow Dr. Kim to detect cancer early, when treatment is often most effective. 

Regular screenings can make a life-changing difference by identifying health concerns before they become advanced or harder to manage.

What health concerns can a cancer screening diagnose?

Different types of cancer screenings target specific health risks for women. Some of the most common include:

Cervical cancer

Pap smears and HPV tests help detect abnormal cells or high-risk infections that could develop into cervical cancer.

Breast cancer

Mammograms use low-dose X-rays to spot changes in breast tissue before they can be felt.

Colorectal cancer

Colonoscopies and stool tests can identify precancerous growths or cancer in the colon and rectum.

Skin cancer

A clinical skin exam may detect unusual moles or spots that need further evaluation.

Ovarian or uterine cancers

While no single test exists for routine screening, pelvic exams and imaging may help identify concerning changes.

What can I expect during a cancer screening?

A cancer screening experience depends on the type of screening you have. A Pap smear, for example, is typically a quick procedure performed during a pelvic exam. Mammograms involve brief breast compression between two plates while images are taken. Colonoscopies require preparation beforehand and are often done with sedation for comfort. 

In most cases, screenings are relatively fast, safe, and focused on prevention rather than treatment.

What if my cancer screening results are positive?

A positive result doesn’t always mean you have cancer. It means that Dr. Kim needs further testing to better understand the findings. He may recommend additional imaging, lab work, or a biopsy.

If cancer is confirmed, early detection offers the best chance for successful treatment and recovery. Your Yunella Women’s Health care team guides you through the next steps and supports you throughout the process.

Cancer screening is one of the most powerful tools we offer for prevention and peace of mind, so don’t wait. Schedule your screening today by phone or online, and take an important step toward protecting your long-term health.