The Importance of Cancer Screening in Preventing and Detecting Early-Stage Cancer

Cancer screening plays a pivotal role in preventing and detecting early-stage cancer, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment and survival. By identifying cancer before symptoms develop, screenings allow for prompt intervention and often result in less invasive treatments. Early detection of cancer, especially at the early stages, offers a much higher likelihood of effective treatment, and can even save lives.

Early-stage cancer detection is essential because it allows for treatment before cancer spreads to other parts of the body. Treatment at an early stage is often less aggressive, less costly, and more successful. For example, detecting breast cancer in its early stages often leads to a high rate of survival with minimal treatment. The goal of early detection is not only to treat but also to prevent cancer from advancing to a more serious, life-threatening stage.

To start cancer screening, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your personal risk factors, such as family history, age, and lifestyle. Based on this information, your doctor will recommend the appropriate screenings and guide you on the right time to begin and the frequency of testing.

City of Hope HomeCity of Hope® Cancer Center, located in Lake County, Zion, Illinois, is one of the most advanced cancer research and treatment centers in the region and offers a comprehensive suite of technology for screening, diagnosing and treating cancer, delivered by highly specialized experts. 

City of Hope® Cancer Center and one of their expert clinicians will be at KPL on Tuesday, March 4 presenting on the topic Cancer Screenings by Age for Women and Men. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. Registration requested but not required. Register here., opens a new window

Curious to find more resources right away? KPL Staffer, Kristen S, has created this list of resources that can be accessed right now: Understanding Cancer resource list, opens a new window

For in-depth factual and vetted research, skip the Google search and go directly to the National Library of Medicine (NLM) world's larget medical library, MedlinePlus, opens a new window. NLM's mission is to present high-quality, relevant health and wellness information that is trusted, easy to understand, and free of advertising, in both English and Spanish/Español, opens a new window. Anywhere, anytime, on any device—for free. Training videos are available or KPL librarians can help you learn to navigate this invaluable resource.