Saving Lives with Early Detection: Dignity Health Celebrates National Cancer Prevention Month

(San Luis Obispo, CA) - April 17, 2025 – April is recognized as National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month, a time to highlight the importance of preventive measures and early screenings in the fight against cancer. Despite significant progress in cancer prevention and early detection, challenges persist as cancer incidence continues to rise in certain populations.

According to the Oncology Nursing Society, cancer incidence rates have been increasing in recent years, particularly among younger adults. In 2024, the United States is projected to surpass 2 million new cancer cases for the first time. This rise is notably driven by increasing diagnoses in six of the ten most common cancers: breast, prostate, endometrial, pancreatic, kidney, and melanoma.

“Cancer prevention and early detection are crucial to reducing the burden of cancer on individuals and families,” said Dr. Tom Spillane,  a Medical Oncologist at SLO Oncology and Hematology Health Center which is part of  Dignity Health’s physician network known as Pacific Central Coast Health Centers. “By adopting healthy lifestyles, following recommended screenings, and embracing early detection, we can significantly improve survival rates and overall quality of life for patients. National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month is a timely reminder for everyone to take charge of their health.”

However, according to the American Cancer Society, thanks to improvements in early detection, treatments and healthier lifestyle choices, the U.S. cancer death rate decreased by 34% between 1991 and 2022.

This month serves as a reminder for individuals to engage in preventative behaviors, such as maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco use, undergoing regular screenings like colonoscopies, mammograms, and checks for prostate,  skin cancer and even other preventive measures like HPV vaccines. Healthcare providers, like Dignity Health Physicians, are committed to supporting their patients at every step of the prevention journey.  For an interview with Dr. Spillane please reach out to [email protected].

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About Dignity Health Central Coast

Seven award-winning hospitals comprise Dignity Health Central Coast: Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Oxnard and St. John’s Hospital Camarillo, all recognized for their quality of care, safety, and service.

Additionally, Dignity Health Central Coast has a network of nearly 50 physician offices known as Pacific 

Central Coast Health Centers that include primary care, cancer care and various specialty offices. Dignity Health Central Coast also includes premier ambulatory surgery centers, technologically advanced imaging centers, outpatient services, and comprehensive home health services. Learn more at dignityhealth.org/centralcoast. dignityhealth.org/phc

About CommonSpirit Health

Inspired by faith. Driven by innovation. Powered by humankindness. CommonSpirit Health is building a healthier future for all through its integrated health services. As one of the nation’s largest nonprofit Catholic healthcare organizations, CommonSpirit Health delivers more than 20 million patient encounters annually through more than 2,300 clinics, care sites and 137 hospital-based locations, in addition to its home-based services and virtual care offerings. CommonSpirit has more than 155,000 employees, 45,000 nurses and 25,000 physicians and advanced practice providers across 24 states and contributes more than $4 billion annually in charity care, community benefits and unreimbursed government programs. Together with our patients, physicians, partners, and communities, we are creating a more just, equitable, and innovative healthcare delivery system. Learn more at commonspirit.org.