Hometown Player: Make a Play For Your Health

Breast and Cervical Cancer: Regular breast and cervical cancer screenings are vital for early detection. Mammograms are recommended for breast cancer screening, and Pap tests are recommended for cervical cancer screening. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best screening schedule for you.

Colon cancer is a serious disease, but it's also highly preventable with regular screening. The risk of colon cancer increases with age and family medical history of the disease. That’s why we recommend screening for everyone ages 45 and over. Screening can find polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon and rectum, which can be removed before they turn into cancer. It can also detect cancer early, when it's easier to treat.

A low-dose CT screening may be recommended for men and women, ages 50 to 77, who are current or former smokers with a 20 pack-year smoking history. If you meet these qualifications, talk to your physician about getting a referral for a lung cancer screening. For more information about the program or to make a self-referral, call Norton Thoracic Institute at (602) 926-0896.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the United States, after skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of death from cancer in men. 

Early detection is key when it comes to prostate cancer. Screening, through PSA testing and digital rectal exams, can help identify prostate cancer in its early stages, before symptoms develop. This allows for a wider range of treatment options and a better chance of successful outcomes. Talk to your doctor about prostate cancer screening and take proactive steps to protect your health.

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer, and it’s especially common here in sunny Arizona. And residents who are older, have fair skin, blue eyes, or a history of cancer are even more at risk.