An old proverb says an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, but in the world of oncology, that "ounce" can be life changing.

National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month, celebrated each April, reminds us that the most treatable cancer is the one caught before it starts – and that we all have the opportunity to lower our risk and catch issues early, when the odds are overwhelmingly in our favor.

While no one can eliminate every cancer risk, two actions – healthy habits and routine screenings – can provide those life-changing “ounces” in terms of cancer prevention and early detection.

Healthy Habits That Support Cancer Prevention

Many of the same lifestyle choices that support overall wellness also play a role in reducing cancer risk. These include:

• Being active, with regular exercise
• Eating a balanced, nutrient‑rich diet
• Limiting or avoiding alcohol
• Not smoking or using tobacco products

Your primary care provider at Logan Regional Medical Group can help you build a plan that supports long‑term health and reduces your risk.

Why Early Detection Matters

Healthy habits don’t prevent all cancers – genetics, environmental factors, and even aging can cause cancers in otherwise healthy individuals. This makes screenings so vital because early detection saves lives. Many cancers are highly treatable – and in some cases preventable – when found early through routine screenings.

That’s where Logan Regional Medical Center comes in. We offer several essential screening options recommended for adults based on age and risk factors.

Common Cancer Screenings We Provide

• Colonoscopies – recommended every 10 years for adults at average risk, starting at age 45 through age 75. Colonoscopies can detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous.
• Mammograms – recommended for women at average risk beginning at age 40, with annual screenings starting at age 45. Mammograms are one of the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer early.
• Prostate Screenings – recommended for men ages 40–69, especially those with a family history of prostate cancer, who may benefit from a prostate‑specific antigen (PSA) blood test to help guide future screening needs.
• Low‑Dose CT Lung Screenings – recommended for current or former smokers ages 50–77. These scans provide detailed images of the lungs with lower radiation exposure than traditional CT scans.

Not Sure Which Screenings You Need?

Your primary care provider can help determine which cancer screenings are right for you based on your age, health history, and risk factors. If you don’t have a provider, you can find one of Logan Regional Medical Group’s skilled clinicians here.

A Healthier Spring Starts With You

By embracing healthy habits and staying up to date on recommended screenings, you’re taking meaningful steps to protect your health – not just this April, but for many seasons to come.

Be well. Live well. Screen well.

That’s why we’re here.