The Role of Primary Care in Cancer Prevention

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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. However, it is important to note that many cancers can be prevented. As well as detected early. Which is when they are most treatable. Your Primary Care provider plays a huge role in cancer prevention. Primary Care physicians (PCP) can play this role by doing routine screenings. Along with lifestyle counseling. To inform you on how to lead a healthy life. As well as by detecting health issues early on. When you see your PCP regularly it has good outcomes. PCPs can have a big influence on your health. In addition to lowering cancer-related morbidity and mortality. In this blog, you will take a look at how your PCP can help reduce your chances of getting cancer. This is according to the National Institute of Health.

Cancer Prevention

Cancer Prevention is about the preventative measures you take. These are taken to lower your risk of getting cancer. This can be done through lifestyle changes, vaccinations, and regular check-ups. PCPs are usually your first point of contact in today’s healthcare system. This makes them a great resource to implement prevention strategies. 

Routine Screenings

One of the main ways your PCP adds to cancer prevention is by giving you routine screenings. These screenings can detect cancer early. When it is easier to treat. The following are common cancer screenings your PCP can recommend:

  • Breast Cancer: Having a mammogram is highly recommended for women over the age of 40. Having consistent mammograms can catch any issues early.
  • Cervical Cancer: Getting a Pap smear can help your PCP detect cervical cancer, like human papillomavirus (HPV). 
  • Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopies can be given to catch colon cancer.
  • Prostate Cancer: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing is recommended for men starting at the age of 50. However, those with higher risk factors can be tested sooner.
  • Lung Cancer: Low-dose CT scans are recommended if you have a history of smoking.

PCPs are responsible for recommending these screenings. They can recommend them based on your age. Along with your gender, family history, and other risk factors. By doing this your PCP can detect any cancer early. Along with starting a timely treatment.

Lifestyle Changes

PCPs play a large role in lifestyle counseling. This is so they can help lower your cancer risk. There are poor lifestyle habits you can be doing that can be hurting your health. Factors like smoking, poor diet, physical inactivity, and excessive drinking of alcohol. These factors are connected to having a higher risk of developing cancer. Your PCP can give tailored advice to you. Some advice may include the following:

  • Quit Smoking: Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer. It is also connected it many other types of cancers. Your PCP can offer counseling during your check-up. As well as connect you with Health Education Services to help you quit this habit.
  • Diet: Eat a healthy diet. A diet that is rich in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. This can reduce your risk of cancer. Your provider can give you dietary recommendations. Along with referring you to a nutritionist. If you need the extra help.
  • Exercise: Regular exercise is connected with a lower risk of several cancers. Your PCP can recommend exercise routines. Routines that are appropriate to your physical abilities. 
  • Alcohol Consumption: Drinking a lot of alcohol is linked to different cancers. You can talk to your PCP drinking less. They are also able to refer you to Mental Health Services. There you can work with a professional about alcohol dependency. 

Vaccinations

Vaccines are another huge part of cancer prevention. This is a prevention method your PCP can provide. For example, the HPV vaccine protects you from cancer. They can protect against the strains of HPV. These strains can cause cervical or anal cancers. Seeing your PCP can ensure that you receive vaccines like this to lower your chances of developing cancer.

Referral

Your PCP see a symptom or a risk in you that can lead to cancer. When this happens they can quickly refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. This early detection and timely referral process is vital. Getting this done promptly improves your health outcomes.

Visit Clinicas 

PCPs are integral to cancer prevention. This is due to the roles they play in routine screenings. Along with the lifestyle counseling and vaccinations they provide. PCPs can significantly reduce the impact of cancer. Take charge of your health today! Visit Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. and see Primary Care Services. Be sure to have regular health screenings. That way you and your doctor can be proactive about your health. The proactive steps you take today can make a huge difference in your future and well-being.