EARLY DETECTION: CANCER
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in America, exceeded only by heart disease and it has been proven that early detection of cancer by mass screenings of large populations is the best way to save lives. Every year, cancer claims the lives of more than half a million people. Many cancer deaths could be avoided if more people were screened for cancer.
Screening for colorectal, breast, and cervical cancers has proven to be especially effective and can reduce illness and death through early detection of cancers and pre-cancers in women. Similarly, screening for colorectal, prostate and lung cancers can reduce illness and death through early detection of cancers and pre-cancers in men. Recent evidence has shown that black women living in America may be at higher risk for developing colon cancer and some health care professionals have suggested that this group of patients should undergo screening at an earlier age for colon cancer. Many adults are not getting regular lifesaving screenings as recommended. Sources: (NIH Medline Plus 2009/ American Journal of Gastroenterology 2009)
