Cancer Prevention Awareness Month: How Early Detection Helps

February is honored as National Cancer Prevention Month, a time focused on taking action to prevent a cancer diagnosis. The American Cancer Society recently reported that more than 1.5 million lives have been spared in the last 20 years thanks to early detection and prevention methods, including quitting smoking and screening programs.

While the report details that a reduction in smoking in the general population has made the most significant impact on cancer deaths, early detection efforts are also on the rise. In recent years screening efforts such as lung CT scans have continued to gain support as a key tool for early detection for those at high risk of lung cancer. St. Louis CyberKnife hospital partner SSM Cancer Care offers a lung screening program for those meeting certain guidelines. Read more about the screening program here.

Screening efforts are an important aspect of routine health check ups and can help detect cancer at an early stage, usually when it is easiest to treat. For more information on early detection methods for cancer, visit the American Cancer Society or contact our center at 636-496-4660.

This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.