cancer prevention

Uncas Health District in Your Community: Cancer Detection and Prevention

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During National Public Health Week, we’re highlighting some of the important work Uncas Health District does in our community. One of our key services is providing free, potentially life-saving screenings for individuals who might have trouble accessing these crucial medical services.

Cancer is a serious health concern, and one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Early detection is key in the fight against this serious illness, and we’re proud to partner with the state to make these screenings available.

 

The Power of Early Detection

Cancer can develop slowly, which is why regular medical check-ups are important for identifying their symptoms. Primary care physicians routinely order screenings for their patients in order to identify potential signs of cancer and track changes in the body over time.

If cancer is detected too late, there is a greater chance that it will have metastasized, or spread to other parts of the body. When this occurs, there is a much greater risk of serious illness or death.

Early screening allows cancer to be treated before it can progress. This not only means that the survival rate is improved, but also that it can be addressed with less invasive methods that improve one’s quality of life during treatment and recovery.

Unfortunately, people may not think that these screenings are accessible to them. This is most likely to occur when someone is uninsured or underinsured, or when they have a lower income and do not believe they can afford medical services.

 

Making Screenings More Accessible

Uncas Health District is a proud participant in the Connecticut Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. This program offers free screening, diagnostic, and treatment referral services to medically underserved women. 

By setting up an appointment with the Uncas Health District, qualifying women can receive clinical breast exams, Pap smears, and mammograms at no cost. The services are available to qualifying women, including those living at or below 250% of poverty level or those who lack the necessary insurance to cover these screenings. Learn more about eligibility criteria here, and contact the Uncas Health District to schedule a screening.

The Uncas Health District also participates in the Connecticut Colorectal Cancer Control Program. This program aims to reduce disparities in colorectal cancer by providing free diagnostic services to identify signs that someone might have this cancer. The program is open to qualifying individuals 45 and older, including those with positive results from other colorectal cancer screenings.

 

Screening for Heart Disease

In our work with the Connecticut Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, the Uncas Health District also helps identify potential heart disease risk factors. Women in this program can enroll in WISEWOMAN, which provides heart disease screenings for participants between the ages of 35 and 64.

A mammogram not only allows for the detection of potentially cancerous tissue in the breast, but also the presence of breast arterial calcification during mammograms. While this is typically not related to breast cancer, it can be a sign of cardiovascular disease. When breast arterial calcification is detected, it allows for early intervention against heart disease.

 

Take Control of Your Health

Don’t wait. Early detection can save lives. 

If you qualify for any of these programs, please reach out to the Uncas Health District today. Your health is our priority.

Cancer Prevention Month: Taking Action to Reduce Your Risk

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woman eating healthy after exercising

Every February, Cancer Prevention Month serves as a reminder that while cancer remains a formidable health challenge, many cases are preventable through lifestyle choices and proactive health measures. With an estimated 2 million Americans diagnosed with cancer (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) in 2024 and more than 600,000 cancer-related deaths, the urgency for awareness and prevention has never been greater.

The Preventable Nature of Cancer

Research indicates that more than 40% of cancer cases and nearly half of cancer-related deaths stem from preventable causes. These include smoking, excessive body weight, physical inactivity, and overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This means that by making informed choices, individuals can significantly lower their cancer risk.

Proactive Steps to Lower Cancer Risk

  1. Quit Smoking (or Never Start) Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable cancer. Smoking is directly linked to lung, throat, mouth, pancreas, and several other cancers. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most impactful steps you can take for your health. If you don’t smoke, avoiding secondhand smoke is equally important.
  2. Maintain a Healthy Weight Obesity is associated with increased risks of several cancers, including breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains, coupled with portion control, can help maintain a healthy weight.
  3. Stay Physically Active Regular exercise not only helps control weight but also reduces inflammation, regulates hormone levels, and boosts the immune system—all factors that can lower cancer risk. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
  4. Protect Your Skin from the Sun Skin cancer, including melanoma, is largely preventable. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wear protective clothing, and avoid indoor tanning. Limiting direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), is also key.
  5. Get Vaccinated Certain cancers are caused by infections. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can prevent cervical, throat, and other cancers, while the hepatitis B vaccine reduces the risk of liver cancer.
  6. Limit Alcohol Consumption Excessive alcohol intake is linked to an increased risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, and breast. Moderation is key—guidelines recommend no more than one drink per day for women and two for men.
  7. Get Regular Screenings and Checkups Early detection saves lives. Routine screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smears can detect cancer at an early, more treatable stage. Consult your doctor about recommended screenings based on your age, family history, and lifestyle.

The Bigger Cancer Prevention Picture

Many diagnosed cancers in the U.S. are considered preventable. While not all can be avoided, taking proactive steps can dramatically reduce risk and improve overall health. This Cancer Prevention Month, commit to small, meaningful changes that can lead to a longer, healthier life.