Should I Be Tested for Cancer?: Maybe Not and Here’s Why by H. Gilbert Welch

Cancer is a difficult question for anyone facing a potential diagnosis. It can be a terrifying thought to consider seeing a doctor for screening and possible diagnoses. But is it always necessary to be tested for cancer? According to H. Gilbert Welch, professor emeritus of medicine at the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, maybe not.

In his book, Should I Be Tested for Cancer?: Maybe Not and Here’s Why, Welch argues that there is often too much emphasis on testing for cancer, especially when it comes to screening. He believes that the potential harms of too much testing can be just as problematic as the cancer itself.

Welch begins by outlining the basics of cancer screening tests, and the importance of understanding why they do and do not always make sense. He acknowledges the difficult decision most people must make when deciding whether or not to get a cancer screening test, but encourages readers to consider the risks as well as the benefits of such tests.

He then goes on to explain that too often, cancer testing can lead to a false sense of security when it comes to cancer prevention. People who get screened might think that they are being proactive and taking steps to protect their health, when in reality, a positive result from a cancer screening might result in an unnecessary biopsy or other more invasive treatment that can bring with it more risks than benefits.

In addition, Welch contends that too much cancer testing often leads to an “unintended consequence”—by which he means that too much testing can lead to a heightened fear and increased to anxiety, which in turn can cause people to make poor decisions like unnecessary or overly aggressive treatment or lifestyle changes.

Welch then looks at different types of cancer screening tests and explains why they can and cannot be beneficial. He emphasizes that while some testing can be beneficial in certain scenarios, many times it can lead to over treatment and needless worry.

Throughout the book, Welch emphasizes the importance of context when it comes to any cancer screening test. Too often, he explains, people look at these tests in a vacuum, without looking at the larger picture of an individual’s risk of cancer. He encourages readers to think carefully about their own situation and the context around any potential test or diagnosis before making any decisions.

In conclusion, Welch offers readers a model of “informed decision-making” in which they consider their risk factors, the potential benefits and harms of the tests and treatments, and the possible course of action if they decide to go ahead with testing. By taking all of these factors into consideration, Welch believes that readers can make the most educated and confident choice when it comes to their own personal cancer risk.

At the end of the book, Welch notes that his goal was not to tell readers what is right or wrong when it comes to cancer screening, but to help them make an informed and thoughtful decision about their own health and well-being. His book, Should I Be Tested for Cancer?: Maybe Not and Here’s Why, is an important read for anyone considering cancer testing to help them make a decision that is right for them.