Q&A with Breast Surgical Oncologist LaNette F. Smith, MD
Most women, when faced with a breast cancer diagnosis, want to know what their surgical options are. While the majority have a general understanding of terminology such as “lumpectomy,” “mastectomy,” and “double mastectomy,” much nuance exists within those larger categories, and new techniques, innovations, and options continue to develop.
Dr. LaNette Smith, breast surgical oncologist at Arizona Oncology, shares updated information about breast cancer surgery and the choices available to patients, as well as information she wants every breast cancer patient to know.
What types of breast surgery are available to women with breast cancer?
Dr. Smith points out that a multitude of variations exist under the umbrella of lumpectomy and mastectomy.
For patients undergoing a lumpectomy, she points to oncoplastic procedures as an option that may provide the best cosmetic outcome. Oncoplastic techniques combine cancer removal with plastic surgery to reshape the breast immediately after the tumor is removed. These techniques can include:
Tissue rearrangement
Reduction/lift (especially if the breasts are large)
Matching procedure on the opposite breast for symmetry
For patients undergoing mastectomy, Dr. Smith points to several variations of reconstruction, most of which can be done at the time of the mastectomy by a combination team of surgical oncologist and plastic surgeon.
Aesthetic flat closure. Also referred to as post-mastectomy chest wall reconstruction, this technique can be done at the time of the mastectomy or a few months later. The surgeon removes extra skin, pockets of fat, and excess tissue while smoothing out what remains to create a flat chest wall contour. This technique works well for patients with a higher BMI, larger breasts, a tumor located close to the chest wall, and/or when radiation therapy has affected skin and tissue quality in the surrounding area.
Implant-based reconstruction. “Locally in Prescott, we have resources to perform tissue expander and direct implant reconstructions along with mastectomy,” says Dr. Smith. This allows implants to be placed directly following the mastectomy, during the same surgery. Newer techniques involve placing the implant on top of the chest muscle instead of under it. “This involves much less pain and is an easier recovery,” Dr. Smith says.
Autologous tissue transfer reconstruction. An alternative to implants, autologous tissue transfer involves using tissue from another area of the body to rebuild the breast. Tiny blood vessels are connected to establish blood flow to the transplanted tissue.
“Most patients are very happy with reconstruction,” Dr. Smith says. She adds that variations of techniques for both nipple preservation and sometimes nerve sensation can be accomplished.
Are there any new developments that women should know about?
According to Dr. Smith, the new developments in breast cancer surgery involve reducing the number of surgeries, in certain circumstances. For example, sentinel node biopsy, a procedure performed to detect cancer in the lymph nodes, can disrupt the lymphatic system, producing lymphedema—a build-up of fluid in the arm, chest, or armpit area.
“We have studies now such as the SOUND trial which allow us to perhaps omit sentinel lymph node biopsy for women who have nodes that seem negative by imaging. This lowers the risk of lymphedema for the patient,” Dr. Smith explains. This is often recommended for patients over the age of 70 with estrogen-positive breast cancers and clinically negative lymph nodes.
“Further, recent publication of the COMET trial supports that the potential for active monitoring for certain patients with hormone receptor-positive grade 1 or grade 2 DCIS is not inferior to surgery. We also have significant data that supports the potential for omission of radiation for selected women with favorable breast cancers. These patients are typically over 70 with smaller estrogen receptor-positive tumors that are lymph node-negative,” Dr. Smith says.
“The use of immune therapy for patients with triple-negative breast cancers can be quite effective for converting women who start off with positive nodes to node-negative prior to surgery,” she goes on to add. “This allows for removal of fewer lymph nodes and a lower risk of lymphedema for the patient.”
What should women consider in order to make the best decision?
Dr. Smith urges breast cancer patients to make their treatment decisions in close consultation with their team of physicians. “I would caution patients about advice from lay people who perhaps had an entirely different type of breast cancer or were treated at a time when guidelines were different. While these people are well-meaning, they can sometimes cause confusion.”
She recommends bringing a reliable partner or friend to all appointments who can talk through decisions with you. “We always welcome patients to have second opinions from other board-certified medical professionals trained in the treatment of cancer, if desired,” she adds.
What are some things that patients found surprising after surgery?
“Many patients are surprised by how quickly they recover from the surgery,” says Dr. Smith. She states that a large number of her lumpectomy patients only take Tylenol for post-operative pain. “They are also often surprised about how little time the actual surgery takes,” she adds.
What is something you tell all of your patients who are undergoing surgery for breast cancer?
Dr. Smith points out that surgery is just one event in the journey of breast cancer. “Rarely is surgery the only modality we use to treat breast cancer,” she explains. “For the surgery itself, we always want the patient to know we will do our very best to take excellent care of her.”
It’s not just the surgeon who is committed to an optimal outcome, she adds. A dedicated team, from nurses to imaging specialists to office staff, all work together to ensure treatment goes as smoothly as possible. “These individuals are a key part of the team,” she says.
What is the best thing women can do for their recovery?
“Take it a day at a time,” Dr. Smith advises. And, in the long run, she recommends eating healthy, exercising, and staying up-to-date on follow-up exams and appointments.
To learn more about Dr. Smith and the team of breast cancer specialists at Arizona Oncology, visit arizonaoncology.com.
Every July 26th, we honor Disability Independence Day—the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. This landmark legislation broke barriers for millions of Americans living with disabilities, affirming their right to access, dignity, and independence.
For many cancer patients and survivors, the topic of disability is deeply personal. Whether temporary or long-term, visible or invisible, disabilities can be part of the cancer journey. But disability does not mean defeat. On the contrary, many patients discover new depths of resilience, adapt to life in remarkable ways, and find renewed purpose in their path forward.
Understanding Cancer-Related Disabilities
Cancer and its treatments can impact the body in countless ways, and those effects may linger long after treatment ends. Some patients experience short-term impairments that resolve over time, while others live with chronic or permanent disabilities resulting from their diagnosis or treatment.
Here are just a few of the ways cancer can intersect with disability:
1. Mobility Challenges
Surgery, bone cancer, metastatic disease, or treatment-related nerve damage can cause difficulty walking, standing, or performing daily tasks. Amputations or spinal tumors may result in partial or full loss of mobility.
2. Cognitive Impairment (“Chemo Brain”)
Some cancer treatments cause lingering issues with memory, concentration, and mental clarity. Often referred to as “chemo brain,” this cognitive fog can interfere with work, relationships, and daily routines.
3. Chronic Pain and Fatigue
Pain from nerve damage, scar tissue, or tumor pressure can become long-lasting. Similarly, cancer-related fatigue can be profound, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming.
4. Lymphedema
Certain cancers can result in lymphedema, a lymphatic system disruption that can cause painful swelling, affect limb movement, and increase the likelihood of skin infections like cellulitis.
5. Sensory or Speech Changes
Some treatments impact speech, hearing, or vision. Head and neck cancers may affect facial movement or voice, while radiation and chemotherapy can impact hearing or eyesight.
6. Emotional and Psychological Effects
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma-related disability can develop during or after cancer care. Mental health is health—and it should be recognized and supported.
Embracing a New Definition of Independence
Disability can be a difficult label to accept—especially for those who didn’t identify with it prior to cancer. But the truth is, independence isn’t defined by what you can do alone. It’s about living with dignity, having access to the support you need, and continuing to engage meaningfully with the world around you.
Through physical therapy, occupational therapy, assistive devices, mental health care, and community support, many survivors find new ways to thrive. It’s not about “bouncing back” to who you were before—but learning to move forward as you are now.
You’re Not Alone: Resources for Cancer-Related Disabilities
Navigating disability can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. There are organizations and programs specifically designed to support cancer survivors facing new limitations:
● Cancer and Careers. Helps survivors navigate workplace issues, legal rights under the ADA, and how to communicate about disabilities at work.www.cancerandcareers.org
● American Cancer Society (ACS). Provides information on physical and emotional side effects of cancer and connects patients to local support services.www.cancer.org
● Cancer Support Community. Offers free counseling, support groups, and resources to help you cope with cancer-related challenges—including those related to disability.www.cancersupportcommunity.org
● Centers for Independent Living (CILs). Nonprofit organizations across the U.S. offering peer support, advocacy, and independent living skills training. Find your local CIL through www.ilru.org
● Social Security Disability Benefits. Cancer patients may qualify for SSDI or SSI if they are unable to work due to treatment or long-term effects. www.ssa.gov
A Message of Hope
Disability is not a weakness—it’s a reality for many people living bravely with illness. It’s a part of life that deserves understanding, inclusion, and compassion. And on this Disability Independence Day, we honor those who are not only fighting disease but also adapting, healing, and reimagining life on their terms.
You are not defined by your diagnosis or your limitations. You are defined by your courage, your perseverance, and your ability to keep moving forward—one step, one breath, one victory at a time.
If you or a loved one is facing new challenges due to cancer-related disability, reach out. Support, guidance, and strength are just a call or click away.
At Arizona Oncology, we believe that compassion and connection should be present alongside clinical excellence. Few people embody this more than Dr. Marshall Davis, a longtime radiation oncologist based in Prescott. Dr. Davis brings not only decades of medical expertise to his patients—but also something even more powerful: personal experience. This National Cancer Survivor Month, we’d like to share his story.
Years ago, Dr. Davis found himself on the other side of the exam table. While working in the medical field, he noticed a lump during a self-exam and quickly sought out a urology colleague. Things moved fast. An ultrasound confirmed the presence of a tumor, and the next day he was in surgery to remove the cancerous testicle. Chemotherapy followed, but his battle was far from over.
Within a year, the cancer had returned—this time in his lymph nodes. He underwent additional surgery and radiation therapy, hopeful that this would be the end of it. But about eight months later, he discovered another lump, this time in his neck. It was cancer again. And so he faced another round of treatment, this time a more aggressive course of chemotherapy.
“It was right before Christmas and when I felt that lymph node, I almost cried because I’m well aware of how we treat testicular cancer when it recurs,” said Dr. Davis. “I knew my next chemotherapy regimen was going to be harsh, but it’s what I needed to do to prevent this cancer from spreading all over my body and killing me.”
Today, Dr. Davis has been cancer-free for over 12 years. But the experience has left a lasting impact—not just on his body, but on his heart and the way he practices medicine.
“You never get something for nothing,” he says, reflecting on the lingering side effects of treatment. “But you can live with the side effects. What you can’t live with is the cancer.”
His personal journey has given him a rare and invaluable perspective. When patients sit in front of him and talk about their fears—about mortality, about uncertainty, about how cancer will affect their families and their futures—he gets it. Because he’s been there.
“You worry about life, death, and everything in between,” he says. “I can tell you that having cancer and being a cancer survivor altered my outlook on how to take care of patients.”
Dr. Davis is known not just for his clinical skill but for his honesty and empathy. “You have to be honest with people about where they stand,” he says. “My philosophy is that it’s better to face up to bad news as soon as possible and then work together to come up with a plan to win the battle.”
That mix of transparency and compassion is what makes him such a valued member of the Arizona Oncology family—and such a powerful advocate for patients. His story is a reminder of how important early detection can be, and how even in the face of setbacks, it’s possible to move forward with strength and resilience.
“I am a cancer survivor – I had a very serious cancer, and received radiation therapy and chemotherapy, so I know what patients go through when they’re being treated and am very compassionate,” he says.
At Arizona Oncology, we’re proud to have physicians like Dr. Davis, who use every tool at their disposal—including their own life experience—to bring hope and healing to others. His journey is not just a story of survival. It’s a story of service, strength, and showing up for others when it matters most.
Watch a video of Dr. Davis talking about his experience here.
About Testicular Cancer:
Approximately 1 in 250 men will develop testicular cancer at some point during their lifetime, and Caucasian men are four to five times more likely to develop testicular cancer than African-American and Asian-American men. The average age of a man diagnosed with testicular cancer is 33. Approximately 6% of cases occur in children and teens, and about 8% occur in men over 55.
If detected early, testicular cancer is one of the most curable forms of cancer. With today’s treatments, testicular cancer survival rates are high, with 95% of men surviving five years after diagnosis. That number jumps to 99% if the cancer was localized in the testicle.
Giving a Well-Deserved Shout-out to Our Oncology Nurses!
Oncology nurses are truly the heart and soul of cancer care. They do so much more than manage treatments—they listen, comfort, advocate, and walk alongside patients and their families every step of the cancer journey. Whether it’s explaining a complex diagnosis, celebrating a good scan, or simply holding a hand during a tough moment, oncology nurses bring a blend of clinical expertise and genuine compassion that makes all the difference in helping our patients to thrive with and beyond cancer.
This Oncology Nursing Month we want to shine a light on these skilled and caring individuals whom we’re lucky to have on our team. Their impact goes far beyond medicine—it’s in the conversations, the hugs, the reassurances, and the tireless dedication to making sure every patient feels seen, heard, and supported.
Here are three of AO’s amazing oncology nurses, who give it their all every day for our patients.
Meet Lauren
Lauren Zeller, CPhT, CMA has been with AO for 10 years, five and a half of those as an admixture tech (the person who prepares and mixes intravenous chemotherapy medications) and the rest as a certified medical assistant. Lauren found it rewarding to switch to what she calls “the other side of treatment,” where she gets the opportunity to work one-on-one with patients rather than behind the scenes.
“There’s nothing better than seeing my patients with a big smile on their face, even in the midst of their health journey. Being a part of their progress from day one to the finish line is truly special,” Lauren says. Lauren strives to bring gratitude to her work each and every day and shares a little something she learned at the bedside: “Laughter really is the best medicine!”
Caring Beyond Limits
The 2025 Oncology Nursing Month theme is Caring Beyond Limits, and we’re proud to uplift that message as well as to honor the unwavering dedication and compassion of our oncology nurses. They are indispensable! As trusted partners in a patient’s journey, oncology nurses monitor progress, keep detailed records, and administer care prescribed by physicians and nurse practitioners. They also educate patients, guide them through treatment, and help prevent recurrence. Just as importantly, they provide emotional support and help ensure clear communication between patients and providers.
Meet Julie
Julie Cowing has been working in the medical field for 38 years, 19 of those as an RN. She truly loves what she does! And while it may be obvious that it takes someone with a huge capacity for giving to become an oncology nurse, what often surprises people is how much oncology nurses receive in return. Patients’ strength, gratitude, and authenticity fuel nurses through even the toughest days, creating a powerful bond. Who are Julie’s favorite patients? “The ones with a great sense of humor who bring gummy candies and put up with my shenanigans with a smile.”
How Do You Do It?
This is a question oncology nurses get asked a lot. A day in the life of an oncology nurse is easily misunderstood by those outside the field. People frequently assume the work is filled with sadness and hardship, asking, “How do you do it? Isn’t it all doom and gloom?”
But for those who dedicate their lives to oncology nursing, the experience is far more uplifting than most realize. It’s a profound honor to walk alongside patients during some of their most vulnerable moments—to celebrate victories, offer support through challenges, and build meaningful, lasting relationships. Over time, many patients become like family.
Meet Tim
Tim Young, RN, became an RN five years ago and feels like every day that he gets to wake up and come to work is a blessing and an accomplishment. Tim remarks, “Being a part of a patient’s journey through one of the most difficult times of their lives is beyond rewarding. It’s an honor to make such a difference in a meaningful way.”
Please Join Us This May in Thanking An Oncology Nurse!
A huge thank you goes out to Lauren, Julie, Tim, and our entire oncology nursing team for all you do for our patients and our practice! If you see an oncology nurse this month, don’t forget to give them some extra appreciation. They deserve it!
For many individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer, completing treatment is a significant milestone. While it brings relief, it can also bring uncertainty about the future and concern over the possibility of recurrence. Others may find themselves managing cancer as a chronic condition, requiring ongoing treatment. No matter where you are in your journey, survivorship comes with unique challenges—and opportunities to take charge of your health.
Creating a Survivorship Care Plan
A survivorship care plan is a crucial tool for post-treatment life. Work with your doctor to develop a plan that includes:
A schedule for follow-up exams and tests
Awareness of potential long-term side effects and when to seek medical attention
Recommendations for maintaining overall health, such as nutrition and exercise
Guidelines for cancer screening and preventative care
Staying engaged in your follow-up care can help you feel more in control of your health and detect any issues early.
The Importance of Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor for recurrence, new cancers, or late effects of treatment. Depending on your cancer stage and treatment history, your doctor may recommend:
Colonoscopy: Typically done one year after surgery, then every three to five years if results are normal
Proctoscopy: For rectal cancer patients who had transanal surgery, this may be recommended every 3-6 months for the first two years
Imaging tests: CT scans may be conducted every 6-12 months for those at higher risk of recurrence
Blood tests: CEA is a tumor marker used to monitor colorectal cancer. If initially high, doctors track its levels every 3-6 months through blood tests for a few years after treatment. A decrease to normal suggests successful treatment, while a rise may indicate recurrence, prompting further tests. (Note: If CEA was normal at diagnosis, it’s usually not useful for detecting recurrence.)
Managing Long-Term Side Effects
While most colon cancer survivors won’t need a colostomy, some experience lingering effects of treatment. Understanding and managing these side effects can improve quality of life and overall well-being. Here’s what to expect and how to cope with common post-treatment challenges.
1. Bowel Changes
Since colon cancer treatments often affect the digestive system, many survivors experience bowel irregularities, including:
Diarrhea: Frequent, loose stools can occur due to the removal of part of the colon or the impact of chemotherapy and radiation.
Constipation: Some treatments slow down digestion, leading to difficulty passing stools.
Fecal incontinence: Loss of bowel control can be due to nerve or muscle damage during surgery.
Management Strategies:
Eat a balanced diet with fiber-rich foods to regulate digestion.
Stay hydrated to prevent constipation.
Use anti-diarrheal or stool-softening medications as recommended by your doctor.
Practice bowel retraining techniques, such as scheduled bathroom visits and pelvic floor exercises.
2. Neuropathy (Nerve Damage)
Some chemotherapy drugs can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet. This may persist for months or even years.
Management Strategies:
Keep extremities warm and avoid cold temperatures, which can worsen symptoms.
Use medications for neuropathy, if prescribed.
Try physical therapy or acupuncture for relief.
Be cautious with sharp objects and hot surfaces to prevent injuries from numbness.
3. Fatigue
Cancer-related fatigue may last a few weeks, months, or longer. It can stem from chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, anemia, or emotional distress.
Management Strategies:
Prioritize rest and listen to your body’s signals.
Engage in light physical activity, such as walking or yoga, to boost energy levels.
Maintain a nutritious diet with enough protein and vitamins to support recovery.
Seek support for emotional well-being, as depression and anxiety can worsen fatigue.
4. Changes in Bladder Function
Colon cancer surgery or radiation can sometimes impact bladder control, leading to:
Increased urgency (needing to urinate more often).
Incontinence (leakage of urine).
Difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
Management Strategies:
Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) can strengthen bladder control.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder.
Schedule bathroom breaks to prevent urgency issues.
5. Sexual Dysfunction
Both men and women may experience sexual health changes after colon cancer treatment due to nerve damage, hormonal shifts, or emotional distress. Men might have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, while women may experience vaginal dryness or discomfort during intercourse. Body image issues can play a role, especially if you are dealing with an ostomy.
Management Strategies:
Communicate openly with your partner about changes and concerns.
Talk to a doctor about medications or therapy options for sexual dysfunction.
Seek counseling or a support group for emotional support.
6. Ostomy-Related Challenges
For those who have undergone a colostomy, adjusting to an ostomy bag can be a major lifestyle change. Skin irritation, leakage, and emotional distress are common concerns.
Management Strategies:
Work with an ostomy nurse to ensure a proper fit and reduce skin irritation.
Use barrier creams or powders to protect the skin around the stoma.
Find comfortable, supportive clothing designed for ostomy wearers.
Seek out ostomy support groups for tips and encouragement.
Reducing Your Risk of Recurrence
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent cancer from returning, adopting a healthy lifestyle may lower your risk. Consider these steps:
Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer
Stay physically active: Regular movement can improve overall health and may reduce the risk of recurrence
Eat a balanced diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while minimizing processed and red meats
Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking may be linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer
Avoid smoking: Research shows that smoking is associated with a higher risk of cancer recurrence
Emotional Well-Being and Support
Survivorship is not just about physical health—it’s also about emotional resilience. Many survivors experience anxiety, depression, or fear of recurrence. Seeking support from loved ones, therapists, or survivorship programs can help you cope with these feelings and maintain a positive outlook.
At Arizona Oncology, we understand the complexities of life after cancer. Whether you’re adjusting to new health routines, managing side effects, or seeking emotional support, our team is here to help you not just survive, but thrive.
Cancer is a complex disease influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and environment, but research shows that nearly half of all cancer cases can be prevented through healthy choices and risk reduction strategies. While no single action guarantees protection, taking small, meaningful steps can make a big difference.
This Cancer Prevention Month, try some of these science-backed recommendations to lower your cancer risk. We’ve made it easy for you by listing 12 ways to reduce your cancer risk and two actionable changes for each that you can make today… just choose this or that. (Bonus: If you love a challenge, feel free to try both!)
1. Quit Smoking (or Never Start)
According to the CDC, tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of cancer. It’s linked to at least 12 types of cancer, including esophageal, throat, and bladder cancer. Almost nine out of every 10 cases of lung cancer is linked to tobacco products. Even secondhand smoke exposure increases risk.
This: Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for free support to quit smoking today.
or
That: Talk to your doctor about medications that help you quit.
2. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds is a major cause of skin cancer, including deadly melanoma. It damages skin cells’ DNA, sometimes causing cells to grow out of control and form tumors. Daily protection is essential, even on cloudy days. Avoid tanning beds as a general rule and protect your skin by doing one of the following:
This: Add a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to your skin care routine every day.
or
That: Switch your base makeup or morning moisturizer to one that includes a sunscreen of SPF 30+.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Fat cells produce a variety of proteins that cause high levels of insulin and other hormones, which may encourage cancer cell growth. Risk for cancer increases with having excess visceral fat and significant excess body fat. Even losing a small amount of weight can help reduce risk.
This: Reduce your portion sizes (using a smaller plate to give the illusion of more food can help).
or
That: Swap sugary drinks for water, and drink a big glass before meals.
4. Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
A diet rich in plant-based foods provides antioxidants and fiber, which help reduce inflammation and protect against certain cancers. They also contribute to a healthy weight. In general, those with the most color—dark greens, reds, oranges, and yellows—contain the most nutrients.
This: Fill half your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables at every meal.
or
That: Eat one cup of raw veggies at every meal.
5. Limit Red and Processed Meat
High consumption of red and processed meats (like bacon, sausage, and hot dogs) has been linked to colorectal cancer. More research is needed, but the increased risk may be explained by the iron and fat content in red meat, and/or the salt and nitrates/nitrites in processed meats. Additionally, when meat is cooked at high temperatures, substances are formed that may cause cancer.
This: Swap red meat for lean proteins like fish or poultry.
or
That: Aim for a vegetarian meal twice a week.
6. Be Physically Active
Physically active adults have a significantly lower risk of developing several commonly occurring cancers, as well as lower risk of several other cancers. If you are a cancer survivor, getting regular physical activity helps give you a better quality of life and improves your physical fitness. Some studies even suggest it can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
This: Take a brisk 30-minute walk five times a week.
or
That: Download an app that gamifies exercise, making it fun.
7. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is a known carcinogen linked to cancers of the breast, liver, esophagus, and possibly prostate. The more you drink, the higher your risk. Some studies show that drinking three or more alcoholic drinks per day increases the risk of stomach and pancreatic cancers. All kinds of alcoholic drinks increase the risk of cancer, not just hard liquor.
This: Stick to moderate drinking—no more than one drink per day for women and two for men.
or
That: Go “dry” for a month and see how you feel. You might find that your alcohol cravings are significantly reduced after abstaining for a short period.
8. Get Screened for Cancer
Early detection saves lives. Screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and skin cancer can catch disease early, when it’s most treatable. Screening recommendations differ based on gender, age, medical and family history, and other risk factors. If you are a current or former smoker, low-dose CT lung cancer screening may be available.
This: Take a day and schedule your routine cancer screenings based on age and risk factors.
or
That: If you’re unsure what needs to be scheduled, make an appointment with your primary care doctor. If you’re a current or former smoker, talk to your doctor about low-dose CT screening for lung cancer.
9. Avoid Harmful Chemicals
Exposure to environmental toxins like pesticides, industrial chemicals, and air pollution may contribute to cancer risk. It’s difficult to avoid exposure to many of the toxins in our daily lives, but there are steps you can take. Besides the options below, the Environmental Working Group offers additional suggestions for reducing toxic exposures in the home.
This: Switch out your cleaning and laundry products for natural ones.
or
That: Plant a small vegetable or herb garden using natural fertilizers and non-chemical pest-management practices.
10. Stay Up to Date on Vaccines
HPV and hepatitis B vaccines can help prevent cancers caused by viruses. The HPV vaccine protects against the most common cancer-causing forms for HPV. The hepatitis B vaccine can help prevent liver cancer.
This: Check vaccination records to ensure you and your children are vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B.
or
That: Make an appointment to discuss vaccination with your doctor.
11. Reduce Chronic Stress
While studies have not shown a direct link between stress and cancer, long-term stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to behaviors that increase cancer risk, such as smoking or overeating. We can never fully eliminate harmful stressors from our lives, but properly managing stress can improve our quality of life and overall health.
This: Practice stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing daily.
or
That: Take a daily walk in nature.
12. Get Enough Sleep
Researchers are studying how chronic sleep problems may increase cancer risk by disrupting the body’s sleep cycle over time. One theory suggests that not getting enough sleep weakens the immune system, making it less effective at preventing abnormal cell growth that can lead to cancer. While poor sleep has not been definitively linked to cancer, getting a good night’s sleep is an important part of maintaining good health.
This: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
or
That: Avoid screens for at least half an hour before bedtime—instead, read a book or meditate.
Start Today
You don’t have to make all these changes at once. Start with one habit and build from there. Each step you take brings you closer to a healthier future.
