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Screen for 10 common types of cancer in Vietnam
An elevated tumor marker level does not necessarily mean that a person has cancer. Rather, it indicates a biological change that may require further evaluation based on the individual’s clinical context.
Some tumor markers may be elevated in the presence of a malignant tumor. However, benign conditions such as inflammation, infection, liver disease, kidney dysfunction, biliary tract disorders, and certain physiological conditions may also cause tumor marker levels to increase.
A cancer diagnosis is not made based on a single tumor marker result. Instead, physicians assess the degree of elevation and changes in marker levels over time, together with the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Additional investigations, such as ultrasonography, CT or MRI, endoscopy, biopsy, or other appropriate diagnostic procedures, may be recommended to determine the underlying cause.
No. Tumor marker levels within the reference range cannot definitively rule out cancer. Each tumor marker has different sensitivity and specificity, and not all tumors produce or release enough of a particular marker into the bloodstream to exceed the established reference range.
Tumor marker levels in some early-stage cancers may remain within the reference range and therefore appear “normal.”
The tested tumor marker should therefore be interpreted as no elevation of the tested tumor marker detected at the time of testing, rather than definitive evidence that cancer is absent. Cancer risk assessment should still consider factors such as age, sex, family history, symptoms, and the results of other appropriate screening or diagnostic investigations.
Not all chronic diseases lead to cancer. However, certain chronic conditions may increase the risk of specific types of cancer, particularly when they cause persistent inflammation, tissue damage, or prolonged cycles of cellular injury and regeneration over many years.
- Chronic viral hepatitis and cirrhosis are associated with an increased risk of liver cancer.
- Diabetes mellitus and certain metabolic disorders have also been associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer.
Having these conditions does not mean that a person will develop cancer. An individual’s cancer risk is influenced by multiple factors, including age, genetic factors, family history, smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, physical activity, and environmental exposures.
Importantly, certain chronic diseases may also cause elevated tumor marker levels in the absence of cancer. Therefore, all laboratory results should be interpreted comprehensively in the context of the individual’s clinical condition and relevant risk factors.
