Improving how we prevent and survive cancer
Take a stand against cancer.
COVID-19 shifted attention away from other health concerns. But it didn't change the fact that nearly 40% of men and women will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lifetime.1
Cancer is a disease that causes cells to grow out of control. It can then cause health issues and lead to death by spreading to tissues and organs throughout the body.
There are several national awareness dates, including breast cancer in October, pancreatic cancer in November and Cancer Screen Week in December. Each provides a chance to focus on cancer prevention and early detection to improve lives and increase longevity.
Cancer risk factors within your control
The causes of some cancers are not completely understood. You can’t change your age or family history. But other lifestyle choices, like what you eat and how much you exercise, can affect your chances of getting cancer.
In fact, at least 42% of newly diagnosed cancers in the U.S. can be avoided (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer). That's about 797,000 cancer cases diagnosed in 2021.2
Screening for cancer
Every day in the U.S., nearly 5,000 people get a cancer diagnosis.3
One of the best tools in the fight against cancer is routine screenings. Screenings can’t prevent cancer. Yet they can find it early, when care might work best.
More than one-third of Americans missed screenings because of COVID-19.4 One million fewer mammograms (x-ray images of the breast), colon or rectum (colorectal) and cervical cancer screenings took place compared to previous years.
Faced with these challenges, health care leaders found options for in-person testing. They sent screening kits to patients’ homes and utilized telehealth tools such as video chats. Our culture is rich in technology. Lessons learned might help make future screenings easier to get.
What do you need to know about tests and other preventive steps? Keep reading to learn more.
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Any improvements in screenings and early detection could have a widespread impact.
Now is the time to get back in the habit of routine cancer screenings. Because staying on top of your health is one of the most important calls you can make.
Play your part in cancer prevention
Podcast
Why cancer screening matters
Hear cancer advocates discuss progress made in cancer research and screening, and how you can boost your odds of beating cancer.
Article
Simple changes to reduce your cancer risk
We all have habits and behaviors that are less than ideal for a healthy life. Here are some simple adjustments you can make to reduce your cancer risk.
Online pledge
Take a healthy stand against cancer
Cancer screening and early detection can save lives. Don't wait - see what recommended screenings are right for you.
What makes you healthy?
From your job to your ZIP code, learn more about the things that have an impact on whether you're living your healthiest life.
Find support for your medical care
Optum Care
Find a local doctor — among the 53,000 Optum Care physicians — who can help you decide which cancer screenings you might need.
Optum Store
Learn about virtual care and mental health support available from the comfort of your home.
Rally
Be inspired to stay healthy by getting annual physicals and screenings, eating smarter and exercising more.
Sources
- National Cancer Institute. Cancer statistics. Last updated September 25, 2020. Accessed October 1, 2021.
- American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2021. Atlanta: American Cancer Society, 2021. Accessed October 1, 2021.
- Ibid.
- Cancer Screen Week. Cancer screening may help save lives. Accessed October 1, 2021.