We all know that early diagnosis is the most important factor to the successful treatment of cancer. The earlier cancer is found, the better the outcomes, period.
At IHC we are now launching the most comprehensive cancer screening program available. This will include a complete annual physical examination (head, ears, eyes, nose, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, pelvis, skin, etc.) as well as cutting edge testing. Our doctors will refer as able and appropriate for those screening tests made available through the BC healthcare system including colonoscopy, pap/HPV testing, mammography, and chest CT scans. In addition to these standard screening tests, our doctors may also refer for whole body MRI, ultrasound, or other imaging services not available through the system.
What makes our cancer screening program most unique, is that we will also provide our screening patients with an individualized cancer prevention plan. For example, for any person with a very strong family history of colorectal cancer, we will make use of all the best technologies available today for screening colorectal cancer (physical examination, FIT test, colonoscopy, Cologuard stool test, SHIELD blood test). In addition to the screening, we will also provide a colorectal cancer-specific prevention plan that includes evidence-informed guidance on the optimal nutritional, exercise, lifestyle, sleep, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical preventative recommendations.
As naturopathic physicians, we can also do a deep dive into other potential contributors to our patients’ health status and disease risk. We can offer testing on nutritional status, hormone health, gut health, mental health, heavy metal burden, allergies, and so much more. With accounts with over 65 international laboratories, Integrated Health Clinic can offer the most cutting edge and up-to-date laboratory testing available on our planet today.
Another unique aspect of our new individualized screening and cancer prevention plan is the Parmar Cancer Risk Algorithm (PCRA) - a mathematical formula developed by our very own medical director Dr. Gurdev Parmar, to determine a person’s cumulative risk for cancer. The PCRA includes the scientifically validated cancer-risk variables including the patient’s family history, personal health history, dietary, smoking and drinking habits, physical activity, age, and BMI. The PCRA assigns scores for each variable in the algorithm and ultimately assigns a total “cancer risk score”, indicating a person’s lifetime risk for cancer, and which cancer(s) are most concerning. These scores are based on the best available science but rely on population statistics, thus the PCRA provides an estimation of lifetime cancer risk, and does not represent actual risk as this is impossible to know with certainty.
If you or someone you know is concerned about cancer risk, please consider entering into this once-of-a-kind cancer screening and prevention plan.
Dr. Gurdev Parmar, ND, FABNO
