Regular cancer screenings can help prevent the disease

Posted 16 January 2020 at 8:54 am

Editor:

The Cancer Services Program (CSP) of Genesee, Orleans, Wyoming & Niagara County has great news to share with your readers. Some cancers can be prevented! February 4th is Cancer Prevention Day and the CSP wants you to know that regular cancer screening can prevent certain cancers or find cancer early when it’s easiest to treat.

The CSP provides breast, cervical and colon cancer screening to eligible, uninsured New Yorkers. This program is supported by the State of New York because cancer screening works — it saves lives. These cancer screenings are covered by most insurance plans as well, so nearly every person has access to these preventive services.

How can cancer screening prevent cancer? Cervical and colon cancer screening can find abnormal cells that can be removed before they turn into cancer. This actually prevents cancer from starting. And while breast cancer can’t be prevented through screening, a mammogram can find breast cancer early. Early detection of cancer means treatment may be easier and it is more likely to be cured.

Here are some basics about cancer screening:

• All men and women ages 50 and older should be screened regularly for colon cancer. There are several ways to be screened, including a stool test that can be done in the privacy of your own home.

• Women age 50 and older should get screened for breast cancer. A mammogram is the best way to find breast cancer early.

• Women ages 21-65-years-old should get screened for cervical cancer.

Individuals should always talk to their health care providers about personal risk factors (family history, personal history, lifestyle) as some people may need screening at a younger age or more often. Some cancers have multiple types of screening options. The individual, along with their health care provider, can decide which screening option is the best choice.

Uninsured residents of Genesee, Orleans, Wyoming & Niagara Counties can call the CSP at (716) 278-4898 to learn if they qualify for free cancer screening.

Jessica Capurso

Health Educator for Cancer Services Program of Genesee, Orleans, Wyoming & Niagara Counties & Community Partners of Orleans Community Health