The word “cancer” brings anxiety to most of us. According to the American Cancer Society, one in two men and one in three women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives.1 While not all cancer is preventable, it’s important to reduce your chances of getting cancer and be aware of your risk factors.
Cancer is a disease that causes cells in your body to grow and spread uncontrollably. If untreated, it can be very serious and even lead to loss of life. There are more than 100 types of cancer, the most common being breast, lung, prostate, colon and skin.1 Depending on the type and severity of cancer, there are different treatment methods, including chemotherapy, surgery and medication.
Catching cancer early is key to treatment and recovery, so stay on top of preventive exams and screenings. If your health care provider suspects you may have cancer, here are the most common tests for detection:2
Your health care provider may also suggest genetic testing or advanced imaging if certain cancers run in your family.
Many health care plans offer preventive services at no additional cost to help reduce your cancer risk. These services may include:
Daily choices can greatly lower your risk of cancer, including:1
Several factors can increase your risk of cancer — some that can be changed and some that cannot:
If you receive a cancer diagnosis, consider these resources that can offer support and guidance for you and your family:
Early detection, making healthy daily choices and practicing preventive care can help reduce cancer risks or potentially improve the outcome of a cancer diagnosis. If you are struggling with a cancer diagnosis, support, prayer and faith will help you get through it. You don’t have to do it alone.
For more information about faith-based health plans, contact us at Insurance@GuideStone.org or 1-844-INS-GUIDE (1-844-467-4843), Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT.
GuideStone® welcomes the opportunity to share this general information. However, this article is not intended to be relied upon as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
1Cancer.org/cancer.html
2MDAnderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/Diabetes-and-cancer.h26Z1591413.html
3CDC.gov/cancer/risk-factors/obesity.html
4CancerCenter.com/community/blog/2023/12/does-inflammation-cause-cancer
5My.ClevelandClinic.org/health/diseases/12194-cancer