Which of the following is NOT a component of regular surveillance for cancer recurrence?

Regular surveillance for cancer recurrence primarily involves monitoring the patient for signs that cancer may have returned after treatment. This process typically includes several critical components that focus on detecting any potential recurrence as early as possible.

Imaging studies, such as CT scans or MRIs, are essential for visualizing any abnormal masses or indications of cancer returning in the body. Physical examinations performed by healthcare providers enable the assessment of physical signs that may suggest recurrence, such as changes in lymph nodes or any new symptomatic developments. Laboratory tests, such as blood work to monitor tumor markers or other relevant indicators, provide vital information about the patient’s overall health and can alert clinicians to possible recurrence.

In contrast, routine screening for unrelated health issues does not directly pertain to the surveillance of cancer recurrence. These screenings are beneficial for overall health maintenance and the early detection of other health conditions (such as cardiovascular issues or diabetes) but are not specifically aimed at monitoring for cancer recurrence. Therefore, incorporating unrelated health screenings is not considered a standard part of the cancer surveillance protocol focused on detecting relapse.