National Cancer Prevention Month

National Cancer Prevention Month is observed in February. During this month, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) emphasizes the importance of preventing cancer. Here are some key points:

• The federal government estimates that 2 million Americans (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) will be diagnosed with cancer in 2024, and more than 600,000 will die from the disease.
• Preventable causes contribute to over 40 percent of cancer cases and nearly half of cancer-related deaths. These causes include smoking, excess body weight, physical inactivity, and sun exposure.
• Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, sun protection, and vaccination against cancer-causing pathogens can significantly reduce cancer risk.
• Effective public education and policy initiatives have led to reductions in cigarette smoking rates, but lung cancer remains a significant cause of cancer-related deaths