Cancer is a serious health concern, but the good news is that nearly 50% of cancer cases and deaths are preventable. Through early detection and lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk and increase your chances of catching cancer at a stage where treatment is most effective.

Many people delay screenings due to fear, inconvenience, or simply not knowing what’s necessary. But routine cancer screening can detect cancer early—even if you have no symptoms—and increase the likelihood of successful treatment. Talk to your doctor today about your screening schedule and the steps you can take to stay healthy.

Understanding your risk

Some cancer risk factors are beyond your control, such as age and family history, but many others are lifestyle-related—meaning you have the power to make changes that improve your health.

Common cancer risk factors

• Family history of cancer – If cancer runs in your family, you may be at a higher risk for developing the disease. Your doctor can help assess your risk and recommend genetic testing if necessary.
• Smoking or tobacco use – Tobacco is one of the leading causes of cancer, increasing the risk of lung, throat, bladder, and other cancers.
• Excessive alcohol consumption – Drinking too much alcohol has been linked to various cancers, including liver, colorectal, and breast cancer.
• Poor diet and obesity – Unhealthy eating habits and carrying excess weight can contribute to an increased cancer risk, particularly for cancers like breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer.
• Lack of physical activity – Regular exercise plays a key role in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of cancer.
• Prolonged sun exposure – Too much exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds increases the risk of skin cancer.

The first step in protecting yourself is talking to your doctor about your personal and family health history. Your doctor can help determine which screenings you need and when you should get them.

Screenings save lives

Getting the right cancer screenings at the right time can detect cancer in its early stages—when treatment is most effective. If you're feeling hesitant about a test, you're not alone. Many people worry about discomfort, cost, or simply "finding something." But remember, early detection provides more options, better outcomes, and a greater chance of living a long, healthy life.

Recommended screenings for seniors

• Breast Cancer: Mammograms every 1-2 years for women 65+
• Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopy or alternative tests every 5-10 years
• Lung Cancer: Low-dose CT scan if you’re a current or former smoker
• Skin Cancer: Regular skin checks for new or changing moles

Don’t delay—talk to your doctor today about your screenings.

6 Healthy habits to reduce your risk

Your daily habits play a major role in preventing cancer. Small changes can make a big impact:

Quit smoking and avoid tobacco

Tobacco use is responsible for nearly one-third of all cancer deaths. It’s the number one cause of lung cancer and also increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, and more. Even if you’ve been smoking for years, quitting now can still reduce your cancer risk over time.

Secondhand smoke is also dangerous. If you live with someone who smokes, encourage them to quit. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

Limit alcohol consumption

Alcohol is linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including breast, liver, colorectal, esophageal, and oral cancers. Even moderate drinking can raise your risk.

If you drink, limit yourself to one drink per day or less. A standard drink includes:

• 12 ounces of beer
• 5 ounces of wine
• 5 ounces of liquor

Cutting back on alcohol not only reduces your cancer risk but also improves overall health, sleep quality, and weight management.

Protect your skin

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Sun exposure and indoor tanning beds significantly increase the risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

• Wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days. Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
• Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves.
• Avoid tanning beds entirely. There is no such thing as a safe tan.
• Get regular skin checks from your doctor, especially if you notice new or changing moles.

Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity is linked to several types of cancer, including breast, colon, kidney, pancreatic, and liver cancer. Extra body fat affects hormone levels, leading to an increased risk of developing cancer.

Maintaining a healthy weight isn’t just about looking good—it’s about keeping your body balanced. Losing even a small amount of weight can lower inflammation, regulate blood sugar, and improve overall health.

Eat a cancer-fighting diet

The foods you eat play a major role in reducing or increasing your risk of developing cancer. Focus on a plant-based diet rich in nutrients:

• Fruits and vegetables: Aim for at least 5 servings per day. They’re packed with antioxidants that help fight cancer-causing free radicals.
• Whole grains and legumes: Fiber-rich foods like oats, brown rice, beans, and lentils help maintain a healthy digestive system.
• Limit red meat and processed foods: Processed meats (like bacon, sausage, and deli meats) have been linked to colorectal cancer. Swap them for lean proteins like fish, chicken, and plant-based proteins (like beans, nuts, and seeds).
• Cut back on sugar and salty foods: High sugar intake contributes to obesity, which increases the risk of cancer. Too much salt has been linked to stomach cancer.

Stay active

Physical activity not only helps you maintain a healthy weight but also reduces inflammation, boosts the immune system, and helps regulate hormone levels. Studies show that 30 minutes of physical activity at least 5 days a week can lower your risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.

You don’t have to do high-intensity workouts to reap the benefits. Try activities you enjoy, such as:

• Walking around your neighborhood
• Gardening
• Yoga or stretching
• Swimming
• Dancing

Even small movements throughout the day—like taking the stairs or parking farther away—can add up over time.

Your health, your future

At Dedicated Senior Medical Center, your doctor and care team are here for you. We work closely with specialists to make sure you get the screenings and care you need.

Take action today

• Talk to your doctor about your personal and family cancer risk
• Schedule your recommended screenings to catch cancer early
• Start making small, manageable lifestyle changes that support your health

Your health is in your hands—take charge today!

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