How prevention, early detection, and routine screenings help protect your future
February is National Cancer Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about steps we can take to reduce cancer risk and detect cancer early. While not all cancers are preventable, many of the most common cancers affecting women can be identified at early stages — or even before cancer develops — through routine screening and preventive care.
At Unified Premier Women’s Care, we believe knowledge is power. Understanding which cancer screenings are available, when they’re recommended, and why they matter allows women to take an active role in protecting their long-term health.
“Dr. Goh is fabulous! Very thorough and not in a rush. She listens, asks questions and offers solutions to my questions. Her nurses and the receptionist are also very friendly.”
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Why Cancer Prevention and Screening Matter
Cancer prevention focuses on reducing risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol use, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. Screening, on the other hand, aims to find cancer or pre-cancerous changes before symptoms appear. Detecting cancer early often means more treatment options, less invasive care, and better outcomes.
For women, preventive visits are an ideal time to review personal and family history, assess risk factors, and ensure recommended screenings are up to date. Even if you feel well, routine screening can uncover issues long before they cause noticeable symptoms.
Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in women. Fortunately, regular screening has significantly improved early detection and survival rates.
Mammography
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect tumors that may be too small to feel. Unified Premier Women’s Care offers advanced 3D mammography, which provides clearer images and may be especially helpful for women with dense breast tissue.
When to screen:
- Women at average risk should discuss beginning annual mammograms around age 40.
- Women with higher risk — such as a strong family history or genetic predisposition — may need earlier or more frequent screening.
Why it matters:
Mammograms can detect breast cancer years before symptoms develop, improving the chance of successful treatment.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers thanks to effective screening methods and HPV vaccination.
Pap Smear (Pap Test)
A Pap test looks for abnormal cells on the cervix that could develop into cancer if left untreated.
HPV Testing
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for most cervical cancers. HPV testing identifies high-risk strains of the virus that can cause cellular changes.
When to screen:
- Screening usually begins at age 21.
- Frequency depends on age, health history, and whether Pap testing, HPV testing, or both are used.
Why it matters:
Cervical cancer screening can detect pre-cancerous changes early, allowing treatment before cancer develops.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer affects both men and women and is highly preventable with routine screening.
Screening options include:
- Colonoscopy, which allows providers to view the entire colon and remove polyps during the procedure
- Stool-based tests, which detect blood or DNA changes associated with cancer
- CT colonography, a specialized imaging test
When to screen:
- Most adults should begin screening at age 45.
- Earlier screening may be recommended if there is a family history or other risk factors.
Why it matters:
Many colorectal cancers begin as benign polyps that can be removed before becoming cancerous.
Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer screening is recommended for individuals at higher risk, particularly those with a history of smoking.
Low-Dose CT (LDCT) Scan
This specialized imaging test can detect lung cancer at earlier stages.
Who may qualify:
- Adults ages 50–80 with a significant smoking history who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
Why it matters:
Early detection through LDCT can significantly improve survival rates for lung cancer.
Skin Cancer Awareness
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, but it’s also one of the most preventable.
Prevention and detection tips:
- Perform regular self-checks for new or changing moles
- Protect skin with sunscreen and protective clothing
- Avoid tanning beds
- Report suspicious skin changes to your provider
While routine skin cancer screening isn’t recommended for everyone, being aware of changes in your skin is an important part of cancer prevention.
Risk-Based and Genetic Screening
Some women may benefit from additional screening or genetic testing based on personal or family history.
Examples include:
- Genetic testing for BRCA mutations linked to breast and ovarian cancer
- Increased surveillance for women with a strong family history of certain cancers
- Evaluation of symptoms related to ovarian or endometrial cancer, which may not have routine screening tests for average-risk women
Your provider can help determine whether additional testing is appropriate for you.
Creating a Personalized Cancer Prevention Plan
Cancer prevention is not one-size-fits-all. At Unified Premier Women’s Care, we work with you to:
- Review your medical and family history
- Identify personal risk factors
- Recommend appropriate screenings
- Discuss lifestyle strategies to reduce cancer risk
Preventive care visits are an opportunity to ask questions, update screenings, and take proactive steps toward long-term health.
“Dr. Street knows my history and takes a personal interest in her patients. I trust Dr Street to provide excellent care! Thank you, Dr Street, for your professionalism and expertise!”
Unified Premier Women’s Care Patient Review
Take Action This National Cancer Prevention Month
National Cancer Prevention Month is the perfect time to prioritize your health. Whether you’re scheduling your first screening or staying current with routine care, early detection saves lives.
Contact Unified Premier Women’s Care today to schedule a preventive visit or cancer screening and take an important step toward protecting your health — now and for the future.