Screening and Early Detection
Continuum of Care

The best treatment for cancer is prevention. Prevention involves reducing the risk of cancer by eliminating or eliminating exposure to risk factors. A risk factor is anything that increases a person's chance of getting cancer. For example, lung cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented, because most lung cancers are caused by smoking.

Early detection involves finding the cancer before it has spread. Early detection offers the best chance of treatment being successful. Early detection identifies a disease when it is still localized, curable, manageable or the identification of a pre-cancerous lesion. Screenings for skin, breast, cervical, colon, prostate, etc. attempt to find cancer in the early stages. Guidelines for early cancer detection in individuals without symptoms have been determined by the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute. Call the Loyola CAN-HELP Cancer Information Service (708) 226-4357 for additional information on screening guidelines for cancer.

Tips to Cut Your Cancer Risk
The American Cancer Society (ACS) has created this list of tips called "Seven Simple Lifestyle Choices Which Reduce Your Risk of Cancer":

• Cut out tobacco
• Hold the fat
• Opt for high-fiber fruits, vegetables and grains
• If you drink alcohol, limit the amount
• Call your doctor for regular checkups
• Exercise every day
• Safeguard your skin from the sun

Related Links
Loyola CAN-HELP Cancer Information Service
Clinical Nutrition Unit
Support Groups
Social Services
Psychology Support Services
Cancer Genetics Evaluation Program