Every February, we observe National Cancer Prevention Month—a time to focus on one of the most powerful tools we have in the fight against cancer: prevention and early detection. While cancer remains a leading cause of death in the United States, research shows that 30-50% of cancer cases are linked to modifiable lifestyle and environmental factors, meaning many cancers can be prevented or detected early when they're most treatable.
The good news? Regular screening can save lives. Studies show that adopting healthy lifestyles and following recommended screening guidelines is associated with substantial reductions in cancer risk and mortality.
The Power of Cancer Screening
Cancer screening aims to detect cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages—or even find precancerous changes before they become cancer. When cancer is caught early, treatment is often more effective, less invasive, and more likely to be successful.
Research demonstrates that if screening uptake increased by just 10 percentage points, thousands of cancer deaths could be prevented each year. Yet many Americans are not up to date with their recommended screenings.
Essential Cancer Screenings You Should Know About
Breast Cancer Screening
Who Should be Screened: Women starting at age 40-45
What to Do:
- Women aged 40-54 should have annual mammograms
- Women 55 and older can transition to mammograms every 2 years or continue annually
- Continue screening as long as you're in good health with a life expectancy of at least 10 years
Women at higher risk (due to family history, genetic mutations like BRCA1/BRCA2, or previous chest radiation) may need to start screening earlier and may benefit from additional imaging like breast MRI.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Who Should be Screened: Adults starting at age 45
What to Do:
Several effective screening options are available:
- Colonoscopy every 10 years
- Stool-based tests (FIT or gFOBT) annually
- CT colonography every 5 years
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
Continue screening through age 75. Between ages 76-85, discuss with your doctor whether continued screening makes sense for you based on your health and prior screening results.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Who Should be Screened: Women starting at age 21
What to Do:
- Ages 21-29: Pap test every 3 years
- Ages 30-65: HPV test every 5 years (preferred) OR Pap test plus HPV test every 5 years OR Pap test alone every 3 years
- After age 65: You can stop screening if you've had adequate prior screening and are not at high risk
Lung Cancer Screening
Who Should be Screened: Adults aged 50-80 with significant smoking history
What to Do:
If you have at least a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years, talk to your doctor about annual low-dose CT screening.
Important: Lung cancer screening should be combined with smoking cessation support if you currently smoke.
Beyond Screening: Lifestyle Changes That Reduce Cancer Risk
While screening is crucial, prevention through healthy lifestyle choices is equally important. Research shows that adopting healthy habits can reduce cancer risk by 17-58% for various cancer types.
Key prevention strategies include:
- Maintain a healthy weight throughout life
- Stay physically active: Aim for 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week
- Eat a healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based foods; limit red and processed meats
- Limit alcohol consumption: Any alcohol increases cancer risk; if you drink, limit to no more than one drink per day
- Don't smoke: If you smoke, consider taking steps to quit. Smoking is linked to many types of cancer, and quitting at any age can significantly improve your health.
- Protect your skin: Use sun protection to reduce skin cancer risk
- Get vaccinated: HPV and hepatitis B vaccines can prevent certain cancers
Studies show that people who follow these recommendations have significantly lower rates of cancer incidence and mortality compared to those who don't.
Taking Action This February—and Beyond
National Cancer Prevention Month is the perfect time to:
- Schedule overdue screenings: Check which screenings you're due for and make appointments
- Talk to your doctor: Discuss your personal cancer risk based on your family history and lifestyle
- Make one healthy change: Choose one lifestyle modification to focus on this month
- Spread the word: Encourage family and friends to stay current with their screenings
The Bottom Line
Cancer prevention and early detection save lives. By following recommended screening guidelines and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, you can significantly reduce your cancer risk. Don't wait—take control of your health today.
Remember: These are general guidelines for people at average risk. If you have a family history of cancer, genetic risk factors, or other concerns, talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need earlier or more frequent screening.
At Lone Star Family Health Center, we are committed to helping you stay healthy through prevention and early detection. Our clinic provides many recommended cancer screenings, including breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancer screening, right here in the clinic or through coordinated referrals when needed. Our healthcare team will work with you to determine which screenings are appropriate based on your age, medical history, and individual risk factors—making it easier to stay up to date and take control of your health.
Dr. Amir Hossain is a resident physician who sees patients of all ages and provides obstetrical services at Lone Star Family Health Center, a non-profit 501©3 Federally Qualified Health Center operating facilities in Conroe, Spring, Willis, Grangerland, and Huntsville, and serving as home to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family Medicine physicians for Texas and our community.
