Why 40% of Cancers Are Preventable—And What You Need to Know Right Now

Up to 40% of cancers may be preventable through healthy lifestyle choices and regular screenings. That's the key message behind Cancer Prevention Month this February, and it's a reminder that taking action today—whether through simple habit changes or scheduling screenings—can significantly reduce your cancer risk. The good news is that many cancers can be caught early, when treatment is most effective, and your healthcare provider can help you figure out which screenings are right for your age and health history.

Which Cancer Screenings Should You Actually Get?

Cancer screenings work by detecting cancer early, often before you notice any symptoms. When caught early, treatment tends to be more effective and less invasive. However, screening needs vary based on your age, family history, and personal risk factors. Here are the main screenings recommended by healthcare organizations:

• Breast Cancer Screenings: Mammograms help find breast cancer early. Many women begin screening around age 40, though your provider can help determine the right timing for you based on your individual risk factors.
• Colorectal Cancer Screenings: Colorectal cancer screening is often recommended starting at age 45 for people at average risk. These screenings can help find cancer early and, in some cases, prevent it entirely.
• Cervical Cancer Screenings: Pap tests and HPV (human papillomavirus) testing help detect cervical cancer and changes that could lead to cancer. Your provider can help determine how often these tests are needed.
• Prostate Cancer Screenings: Prostate cancer screening may be recommended for some men as they age. A healthcare provider can help decide when screening should begin based on your risk profile.
• Lung Cancer Screenings: People who currently smoke or used to smoke may qualify for lung cancer screening. These screenings can help detect lung cancer earlier in higher-risk individuals.
• Skin Cancer Checks: Regular skin exams and watching for changes in moles or spots can help find skin cancer early. Protecting your skin from the sun is also an important prevention step.

What Lifestyle Changes Actually Lower Your Cancer Risk?

Screenings are only part of the equation. Research shows that preventing cancer also depends on everyday choices. According to Crawford County Memorial Hospital, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, protecting your skin from the sun, and avoiding tobacco are all evidence-based ways to reduce cancer risk. These aren't just vague recommendations—they're backed by research from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Cancer Society, and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

The combination of prevention and early detection creates a powerful defense. When you take steps to lower your risk through lifestyle choices and then follow up with age-appropriate screenings, you're giving yourself the best chance of staying healthy or catching problems early when they're most treatable.

How Do You Know Which Screenings Are Right for You?

This is where personalized care matters. Screening recommendations aren't one-size-fits-all. Your age, family history, personal health history, and individual risk factors all play a role in determining which screenings make sense for you. That's why talking with your healthcare provider is essential. They can review your specific situation and create a plan tailored to your needs rather than recommending screenings you may not actually need.

If you're unsure where to start, Cancer Prevention Month is a good time to schedule a conversation with your primary care doctor. Many hospitals and health systems, like Crawford County Memorial Hospital, offer preventive screenings close to home and can help you navigate your options. Taking action today—whether that's scheduling a screening, quitting tobacco, or increasing physical activity—can help protect your health for years to come.