The Doc Talk Podcast
Dr. Shazma Mithani and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe have spent years navigating the health care system. Not just as doctors for their patients, but as moms for their kids, and patients themselves. And they know it's not always straightforward.
Every two weeks they'll take a real question from a real patient, and provide in-depth answers with a clear path to action, with help from other trusted experts.
No jargon. No time wasted. Just real talk about real issues from two doctors who've seen it all. And they'll give you the inside scoop on how to navigate the health care system like a pro.
This is The Doc Talk.
Disclaimer: The Doc Talk is for general information purposes only. This podcast is not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak to your own healthcare provider for questions related to your personal health needs.
The Doc Talk Podcast
11. How Cancer Screening Could Save Your Life
In this episode of The Doc Talk Podcast, Dr. Shazma Mithani, an ER doctor, and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe, a family doctor, tackle an important listener question: How can I stay up to date with cancer screening to reduce my risk?
Cancer screening is not about finding something wrong—it’s about catching potential issues early, sometimes before symptoms even appear. This episode covers what you need to know about cancer screening, including when to start, how often to screen, and why early detection can save lives.
What we cover in this episode
Breast Cancer Screening: Why there’s a push to lower the starting age from 50 to 40, plus screening guidelines based on personal and family history.
Cervical Cancer Screening: The shift toward HPV testing from Pap tests, and why regular screenings are crucial even if you feel fine.
https://cancer.ca/en/treatments/tests-and-procedures/human-papillomavirus-hpv-test
Colorectal Cancer Screening: Why younger adults are seeing higher rates of colorectal cancer and what you can do to detect it early.
Prostate Cancer Screening: The PSA debate—why routine testing isn’t always recommended in Canada and what men should know.
Lung Cancer Screening: Who qualifies for low-dose CT scans, and why chest X-rays often miss lung cancer.
True or False Rapid Round! Debunking common myths about cancer screening.
When to See Your Doctor vs. the ER: If you have symptoms like unexplained bleeding, pain, or weight loss—don’t delay seeking medical attention.
Taking Action
Know your age and eligibility for screening. Ask about family history—it matters. Don’t skip tests just because you feel fine. Get back on track if life got in the way.
If this episode helped you, share it with someone who needs to hear it—it could literally save a life.
Episode Sponsored by Always Discreet: Thank you to Always Discreet for sponsoring this episode of the DocTalk Podcast! Get your promo code for your product at: https://www.checkout51.com/offer/Always-Discreet-Underwear-and-Pads-coupon69862
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Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare provider for recommendations specific to your health.