Oncology
Cancer Screening
Also known as: Tumour Markers, CA-125, PSA, AFP
Understanding tumour markers — what they can and can't tell you.
How MedFast.AI helps with cancer screening reports
MedFast.AI reads your tumour marker report and explains what a high or low result actually means — and doesn't mean — in your specific context.
Tests & values you'll see
Click any term to open its plain-language explainer.
PSA
A protein from the prostate. Elevated levels in men can mean an enlarged prostate, infection, or sometimes prostate cancer — needs context.
CA-125
A protein sometimes elevated in ovarian cancer, but also in endometriosis, fibroids, and pregnancy. Never diagnostic alone.
CEA
A tumour marker used mainly to monitor colon cancer treatment response. Slightly elevated in smokers and inflammatory bowel disease.
AFP
A protein used to screen for liver cancer, testicular cancer, and (in pregnancy) fetal neural tube defects.
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive tumour marker mean I have cancer?
No. Tumour markers rise in many non-cancer conditions too — infection, inflammation, benign growths, pregnancy. They're mainly used to monitor known cancers, not to diagnose new ones. Never self-diagnose from a raised marker.
Should I do a whole-body tumour marker panel as a checkup?
Most cancer societies advise against it. Random tumour marker panels in healthy people generate more false alarms than real diagnoses, leading to unnecessary scans, biopsies, and anxiety. Discuss targeted screening with your doctor based on your age, family history, and risk factors.
My PSA is 5. Do I have prostate cancer?
Not necessarily. PSA rises with age, benign prostate enlargement, infection, or after a rectal exam. A urologist will interpret it with your history, may repeat the test, and only recommend a biopsy if the pattern warrants it.
Sources & Standards
The plain-language explanations above draw on published standards from the following bodies. Reference ranges and thresholds vary slightly by lab and demographic — always check the range on your own report and follow your doctor's interpretation.
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
India's apex biomedical research body
India-specific clinical guidelines and reference values.
- NIH / MedlinePlus
US National Institutes of Health patient-education arm
Plain-language descriptions of tests, conditions, and medicines.
- World Health Organization (WHO)
Global public-health authority
Global reference ranges and disease classifications.
We can be wrong. Explanations here are for comprehension only — confirm every decision with your doctor.
This is a comprehension aid, not medical advice. AI can be wrong. Always confirm any health decision with your doctor.