Cancer: Prevention and Early Detection Are Key

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.

What is cancer?

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.

How is cancer detected?

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

• Biopsy: A small tissue sample is examined for cancer cells.
• Imaging: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, PET scans and ultrasounds are reviewed for signs of cancer, including the size and spread of tumors.
• Blood tests: PSA (for prostate cancer), CEA (for colon cancer) and CA-125 (for ovarian cancer) are types of blood tests used to detect abnormal cells. 

Your health care provider may also suggest genetic testing or advanced imaging if certain cancers run in your family.

What services and programs can help prevent cancer or catch it early?

Many health care plans offer preventive services at no additional cost to help reduce your cancer risk. These services may include:

• Screenings: Most health plans cover mammograms, Pap smears, prostate exams and colonoscopies for early detection.
• Telemedicine services: Virtual medical care — through an app, video or phone — provides quick, convenient access to health care providers to discuss symptoms and testing options.
• Wellness programs: Some health care plans provide educational programs and resources to help prevent cancer and encourage regular screenings and exams.

Can I reduce my risk of cancer?

Daily choices can greatly lower your risk of cancer, including:¹

• Exercising at least three times per week
• Eating heart-healthy foods and limiting processed meats, red meats and sugar
• Using sunscreen and wearing sunglasses and protective clothing to avoid sun damage
• Reducing or eliminating the use of tobacco

What factors increase cancer risk?

Several factors can increase your risk of cancer — some that can be changed and some that cannot:

• Age: As you get older, you’ll naturally have more years of exposure to cancer-causing factors, such as UV radiation.
• Family history: If an individual or multiple people in your family have had certain cancers, like breast or colon cancer, your risk may be higher.
• Chronic conditions: Long-term health issues like diabetes,² obesity³ and inflammatory⁴ diseases can raise the risk of cancer, especially if they go unmanaged.

Where can I go for help?

If you receive a cancer diagnosis, consider these resources that can offer support and guidance for you and your family:

• Cancer treatment centers: Many hospitals and clinics specialize in cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.⁵
• Faith-based cancer support: Ministries and other Christian organizations can provide resources to cancer patients and their families.
• Support groups: These gatherings allow individuals to share experiences, fears and coping strategies. Groups are available in person and online.
• Patient advocates through your health plan: Some health plans offer patient advocacy to help individuals navigate cancer care. For example, GuideStone’s clinical advocates help members navigate complex health issues like cancer.

Guidance Through Faith and Knowledge

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