Question 1

What is Cancer?

Accepted Answer

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth that can invade and spread throughout the body. It is caused by genetic mutations triggered by factors including heavy metal exposure (arsenic, cadmium), chronic inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, and environmental toxins like tobacco. The Heavy Metals Panel Blood Test is the most important screening test for identifying toxic metal exposure that significantly increases cancer risk.

Question 2

What causes cancer?

Accepted Answer

Cancer is caused by genetic mutations that allow cells to grow uncontrollably and invade other tissues. These mutations are triggered by multiple factors including environmental toxins (arsenic, cadmium, tobacco smoke), chronic inflammation, viral infections (HPV, hepatitis B and C), radiation exposure, and inherited genetic predispositions. Heavy metal exposure, particularly to arsenic and cadmium, significantly increases the risk of lung, bladder, kidney, and prostate cancers. Lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, obesity, and lack of physical activity also contribute to cancer development by creating cellular damage and chronic inflammation.

Question 3

What is the best test for cancer risk assessment?

Accepted Answer

The Heavy Metals Panel Blood Test is the most important screening test for identifying environmental cancer risk factors because it detects toxic metals like arsenic and cadmium that are strongly linked to multiple cancer types. This panel is essential for anyone with occupational exposure, living near industrial areas, or concerned about environmental toxins. The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) test and High Sensitivity CRP are also critical because they measure inflammation levels that can indicate the body's response to cancerous processes. For comprehensive risk assessment, the Immune Cell Function test evaluates your immune system's capacity to detect and destroy cancer cells, which is particularly important for blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. Additional valuable tests include Selenium to assess protective antioxidant status and the Nicotine and Cotinine test to measure tobacco exposure.

Question 4

When should I get tested for cancer risk?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have a family history of cancer, work in industries with chemical or heavy metal exposure, are a current or former smoker, or have unexplained symptoms like persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or chronic inflammation. Testing is also important if you've been exposed to environmental toxins, have a history of chronic infections, or have lifestyle risk factors like poor diet and lack of exercise. Getting baseline testing in your 40s is recommended even without symptoms, as early detection of risk factors allows for preventive interventions. If you notice any unusual lumps, persistent pain, changes in bowel or bladder habits, or wounds that won't heal, you should get tested immediately while also consulting a healthcare provider.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of cancer?

Accepted Answer

Cancer symptoms vary widely depending on the type and location but often include unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, lumps or thickening under the skin, changes in bowel or bladder habits, persistent cough or hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. You might notice unusual bleeding or discharge, changes in existing moles or skin lesions, persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating, and chronic pain in bones or other areas. Many people experience night sweats, persistent fever, or a general feeling of unwellness that doesn't improve. However, early-stage cancers often produce no symptoms at all, which is why risk factor screening through blood tests is so valuable for identifying potential problems before symptoms appear.

Question 6

Who is at risk for cancer?

Accepted Answer

People with family history of cancer, especially if multiple relatives were affected or diagnoses occurred at young ages, face significantly elevated risk. Smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke have dramatically increased risk of lung, throat, and bladder cancers. Workers in industries involving asbestos, heavy metals, chemicals, or radiation have higher cancer rates. People over 65 account for most cancer diagnoses, though certain types affect younger individuals. Those with chronic infections like HPV, hepatitis B and C, or H. pylori, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet low in fruits and vegetables, and minimal physical activity all have increased cancer risk. Additionally, people with weakened immune systems from HIV, organ transplants, or immunosuppressive medications are at higher risk.

Question 7

What happens if cancer is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated cancer typically grows larger and spreads (metastasizes) to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, making it progressively harder to treat and significantly reducing survival rates. As cancer advances, it causes severe complications including organ failure when tumors interfere with vital organ function, severe pain from tumor growth pressing on nerves and tissues, and dangerous blood clots due to hypercoagulable states. You may experience malnutrition and extreme weight loss (cachexia) as cancer consumes the body's resources, frequent infections from immune system suppression, and bleeding problems. Advanced cancer often causes bowel or urinary obstruction, fluid accumulation in the chest or abdomen, and neurological problems if it spreads to the brain or spinal cord. Early detection through risk factor screening gives the best chance for successful treatment.

Question 8

Can cancer be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests cannot definitively diagnose most cancers, but they play a crucial role in identifying risk factors, detecting warning signs, and monitoring cancer-related complications. Tests like the Heavy Metals Panel identify environmental exposures that increase cancer risk, while inflammatory markers like CRP and ESR can indicate processes associated with malignancy. Blood tests can detect liver involvement through AST levels, assess immune function, and identify blood clotting problems related to cancer. For certain blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, blood tests showing abnormal blood cell counts are essential diagnostic tools. Definitive cancer diagnosis typically requires imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET scans), tissue biopsies, and physical examination, but blood tests provide valuable complementary information that guides further investigation and helps monitor treatment response.

Question 9

How is cancer treated?

Accepted Answer

Cancer treatment depends on the type, stage, location, and overall health, with most patients receiving a combination of therapies. Surgery removes tumors and nearby affected tissue when cancer is localized and accessible. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells throughout the body, while radiation therapy targets cancer cells with high-energy beams to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells. Immunotherapy harnesses your immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. Targeted therapy drugs attack specific molecular changes in cancer cells while sparing normal cells. Hormone therapy blocks hormones that fuel certain cancers like breast and prostate cancer. Stem cell transplant replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy cells for blood cancers. Treatment plans are highly individualized based on cancer characteristics, genetic testing of tumors, and patient preferences.

Question 10

How can I prevent cancer?

Accepted Answer

You can significantly reduce cancer risk by avoiding tobacco in all forms and limiting alcohol consumption to moderate levels or avoiding it entirely. Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed meats and red meat. Exercise regularly with at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly and protect your skin from sun exposure using sunscreen and protective clothing. Get vaccinated against HPV to prevent cervical and other cancers, and hepatitis B to reduce liver cancer risk. Limit exposure to environmental toxins by testing for heavy metals, using protective equipment in hazardous work environments, and filtering drinking water. Get regular cancer screenings appropriate for your age and risk factors, including colonoscopies, mammograms, and skin checks. Managing chronic infections and inflammation also reduces cancer risk.

Question 11

What natural remedies help reduce cancer risk?

Accepted Answer

While natural approaches cannot replace medical screening or treatment, certain strategies support cancer prevention and overall health. Consuming antioxidant-rich foods like berries, dark leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower), and green tea helps neutralize free radicals that damage DNA. Supplementing with selenium, vitamin E (specifically beta-gamma tocopherol), vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids may provide protective benefits, though you should have your levels tested first to identify deficiencies. Turmeric containing curcumin, garlic, and medicinal mushrooms have compounds that support immune function and may have anti-cancer properties. Managing stress through meditation, yoga, and adequate sleep (7-9 hours nightly) supports immune system function. Maintaining healthy gut bacteria through probiotic-rich foods and fiber supports immune surveillance. However, always combine these natural approaches with regular medical screening, especially blood tests that identify risk factors like heavy metal exposure and inflammation.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Cancer Risk Blood Test & Screening Panel

What is Cancer?

What causes cancer?

What is the best test for cancer risk assessment?

When should I get tested for cancer risk?

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