- National Cancer Survivor Day - June 8, 2026
- May Healthcare Awareness Topics - May 14, 2024
- Colon Cancer Awareness Month - February 28, 2023
June 7th is National Cancer Survivor Day. Many, if not all, are affected to some degree with cancer at some point in their lifetime. They themselves are either diagnosed with cancer, or they have a close family member or friend diagnosed. This is a great time of the year to remember those who have been affected by cancer and specifically those who have fortunately survived their cancer. Since cancer affects so many of us, it is important to maintain all cancer preventative screening tests and notify your primary care provider of any new or concerning symptoms.
For both men and women, colon cancer screening is recommended at age 45, or possibly sooner if you have had a close family member diagnosed with colon cancer. Smokers between the ages of 55 and 80 should be screened for lung cancer. Of course, the best cancer prevention is smoking cessation. Smoking is a known risk factor for multiple types of cancer.
For men, screening for prostate cancer is recommended and typically starts at age 45-50, depending on risk factors. For women, screening for breast cancer and cervical cancer are recommended. Breast cancer screening typically starts at age 40, and cervical cancer screening starts at age 21. Again, based on personal risk factors, this could vary from one individual to another. It is important to discuss both your personal and family history with your primary care provider so we can help determine what type of screening you qualify for and when the screening should begin.
As we remember Cancer Survivor Day, let’s keep these thoughts in mind and individuals who have survived this detrimental disease. Here at Summit Internal Medicine Associates, we are happy to help guide you in appropriate cancer screenings and determine if a specific work-up or treatment is necessary for any concerning symptoms you may be experiencing. It is important to stay up to date on all your healthcare needs and follow screening guideline recommendations.