The American
Cancer Society recently released its 2012 Cancer Facts & Figures showing
that new cases of the most common forms of cancer, including lung, colon and
prostate, are decreasing across the United States. Cancer prevention and
treatment is better today than at any time in history, so it makes sense that
increased awareness of these common cancers, combined with early screening and
detection, is leading to a decreased number of cases.
While this is
excellent news for the country as a whole, unfortunately we’re seeing a
different story in Texas. These same common cancers are on the rise in the Lone
Star state. While many factors likely contribute to this counter trend in
Texas, some of the key reasons that raise risk for these cancer types are
obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking.
So, Texas Oncology is issuing a challenge to every resident in the
Greater Houston area and across Texas to take charge of your health and help
combat lung, colon, and prostate cancers in our community. Making lifestyle
choices that help prevent cancer, and getting regular screenings to detect
cancer at its earliest stages, are the most important first steps to take.
Stop Smoking, Watch for Early Signs of Lung
Cancer
Lung cancer continues to be responsible for the most
cancer-related deaths in Texas. In 2012, the American Cancer Society estimates
that 9,780 Texans will die from lung cancer – which is 220 more than last year.
In addition, the number of Texans diagnosed with lung cancer is expected to
rise by 6 percent in 2012. According to the American
Lung Association, tobacco smoke is by far the most important risk
factor for developing lung cancer, so if you’re a Texan who smokes, quit today.
Quitting smoking also reduces your risk for numerous other cancers as well as
heart and lung disease. Resources are available to help you at websites like SmokeFree.gov.
Reduce Risk of Colon Cancer through Better Diet,
Exercise
One hundred and 40 more people in Texas are expected to be
diagnosed with colon cancer this year than in 2011. A high-fat diet, obesity
and family history of the disease raise the likelihood of developing colon
cancer, which is among the most difficult to detect because it lacks symptoms
in early stages. However, there are five types of colon cancer screenings
available, including a colonoscopy and fecal occult blood test. Texans should
begin to take advantage of these important screening measures beginning at age
50, and then every 5-10 years after that, depending upon the chosen test.
Get Screened for Prostate Cancer
Since 2004, prostate cancer incidence rates in the United States
have decreased by 2.7 percent per year among men at least 65 years old and have
remained stable among men younger than 65. However, in Texas the number of
prostate cancer cases is expected to rise again in 2012.
The survival rate for prostate cancer is much higher when detected
early, so regular prostate cancer screenings for men after age 50 is highly
encouraged. Consult your physician to determine an individualized schedule for
prostate screenings – some men with risk factors may need to begin testing
earlier. Prostate screenings should include the prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE).
For more information about lung, colon and prostate cancer
prevention, visit www.TexasOncology.com.
Editor’s note: Dr. David
Gill is a medical oncologist at Texas Oncology-Deke Slayton Cancer Center, 501
Medical Center in Webster. Dr. Patrick Zielie is a urologist at Texas Urology
Specialists-Tomball, 506 Graham Drive, Suite 150 in Tomball, and Texas Urology
Specialists-The Woodlands, 17198 St Luke’s Way, Suite 410 in The Woodlands.
Texas Oncology has practices throughout the Greater Houston area, including
specialists in medical oncology, radiation oncology, gynecologic oncology,
urology, and breast care.