The cervix is a female anatomical structure located in the lower part of the uterus. Cervical cancer results from abnormal cell growth in the cervix. Early detection through Pap examinations and other tests are essential in cancer control and prevention. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes a high prevalence of cervical cancer in Western countries related to lack of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and absence of screening. Fortunately proactive measures can be implemented for health promotion and cancer prevention.

The bladder is a balloon-shaped organ in the pelvis responsible for storing urine until released by the body. Its muscle fibers allow for stretching and voluntary control of urine output. Bladder conditions occur when the natural physiology is compromised on some level. This month we acknowledge bladder cancer awareness delving into causes, risk factors, and treatment options for cancer control and prevention.

How prevalent is cancer of the bladder, and who’s at risk?

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 74,000 new cases of bladder cancer in 2015, that’s an average of 56,320 in men and 17,680 in women. Bladder cancer is more common in older adults with 9 out of 10 diagnosis in people over the age of 55.

The American Lung Association notes lung cancer as the leading cancer killer among men and women. Cancer of the lung(s) is caused by abnormal cellular proliferation. The rapid growth of cancerous cells can form tumors and metastasize (spread) to other organs in the body. Treatment options vary depending on the stage of cancer and the individual’s health needs. Early screening and health promotion are imperative for lung cancer control and prevention. The Mayo Clinic also comments on risk factors leading to lung cancer stating, “The risk of lung cancer increases with the length of time and number of cigarettes you've smoked. If you quit smoking, even after smoking for many years, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing lung cancer.”

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Understanding the cause and risk factors is fundamental, yet even more so is taking steps towards breast cancer prevention. The National Breast Cancer Foundation provides a useful application – Early Detection Plan, which is available on their website, App store, and Google play. The application allows individuals to set notifications, reschedule appointments, log exams, get email notifications, and explore local breast clinics.

The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention accounts prostate cancer as the leading cause of cancer diagnosed among U.S. men. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located in the male’s reproductive system just below the bladder. Prostate cancer develops when cancerous cells form and multiply in the prostate gland. The American Cancer Society states, “Prostate cancer is very rare in men younger than 40, but the chance of having prostate cancer rises rapidly after age 50. About 6 in 10 cases of prostate cancer are found in men over the age of 65.” The cause of prostate cancer remains uncertain, yet demographics and lifestyle choices are prominent factors seen in men with this type of cancer. It’s essential for men to stay informed and proactive towards prostate cancer prevention. Get moving towards cancer prevention with facts, stats, and health tips just for men!