February is National Cancer Prevention Month, a time to focus on the everyday choices and proactive steps that can help reduce cancer risk and support long-term health. At PRECEDE, this month serves as an important reminder that prevention begins with knowledge, healthy living, and timely screening.
Prevention Starts with Lifestyle
Research continues to show that simple, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference. Here’s what you can do to lower your risk of cancer:
- Maintaining a balanced diet
- Staying physically active
- Limiting alcohol and tobacco consumption
- Protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure
While no lifestyle change can guarantee prevention, these actions empower individuals to take control of their health in measurable ways.
Know Your Hereditary Risk
Understanding your family health history is another essential step in cancer prevention. Certain cancers have hereditary links, meaning your personal risk may be higher based on genetics. Speaking with a healthcare provider about your family history can help determine whether genetic counseling or earlier monitoring is appropriate. Awareness creates opportunity for prevention, early detection, and peace of mind.
Screen Early, Screen on Time
Routine screenings remain one of the most effective tools for catching cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages. Recommended screening ages and frequencies vary depending on the type of cancer and individual risk factors, making regular conversations with healthcare professionals especially important. When detected early, outcomes improve and lives are saved.
A Month to Act, A Lifetime to Protect
National Cancer Prevention Month is a call to make informed choices that support lifelong wellness. By embracing healthy habits, understanding hereditary risk, and staying current with screenings, each of us can play a role in reducing the impact of cancer in our communities.
