Cancer Screening Can Make A Difference

Last week, there was some encouraging news that surfaced about cancer in the United States.  Since that’s something that doesn’t generally get much press, I thought it would be worth talking about.

A new report from leading cancer organizations showed the first ever decline in both death rate and newly reported cases of cancer.   This report has been issued yearly since 1998.  The report goes on to state that the decline can be attributed to decreases in some of the most common forms of cancer.  For men, those include lung, colon/rectum, and prostate cancers.  For women, they are breast, colon/rectum, and lung cancers.  Another interesting statement from the report that never gets reported is that the actual death rate from all cancers has been on the decline since the early 1990′s.  That’s something I had never heard.

I find this news to be incredibly encouraging.  It needs to be discussed, and broadcast as widely as possible.  Why?  Because almost everyone I know has a very fatalistic attitude about cancer.  I know smokers who will say there’s no point in trying to quit because “if they’re going to get cancer, there’s no way to stop it.”  I also know people who refuse to get colorectal screenings for the same reason.  I think this report shows that attitudes about cancer prevention are changing.  For the better.  It is well documented that early detection and removal of colon polyps can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.  Knowing that fact, it seems foolhardy that anyone who knows themselves to be at risk would be negligent about getting screened.  Yet, I personally know people who will not go for screenings.  Why?  Because they have a fatalistic attitude.  Or because of the societal stigma around cancers of the colon.  This report shows that attitude to be misplaced.  Lifestyle changes, regular screenings, and early detection can make a difference, and it appears that we are slowly learning that fact.  Adopt a positive attitude, and get pro-active about managing your health.  What can you do?  Here are a few tips…

1. Get an annual checkup.  Most insurance companies offer a yearly screening at no charge.  While you’re there, talk to your doctor about what testing you should be having.  Be an active participant in your healthcare.
2. If you use tobacco products, stop.
3. If you have a family history of colorectal cancers, get screened early.  If not, talk to your doctor about when you should start.
4. Women — get your mammograms
5. Men — get your prostate exam
6. If you spend a great deal of time outdoors, go talk to your dermatologist about what it takes to reduce your risk of skin cancer.  Wear UV protective clothing

These are just a few thoughts, but they’ll get you started.  For other, more detailed information, go the the National Cancer Institute’s website.

Does all of this mean something bad won’t happen?  No, it doesn’t.  But if we know there are steps that can be taken to reduce our risk factors, it is irresponsible not to take those actions.  If you’re not willing to act for yourself, do it for your loved ones.  It doesn’t matter what your motivation may be, as long as you get screened, and then act on what you learn.