It is in part due to the cancer's ability to spread that early detection is critical to successful treatment. Where the cancer originated and the spread of the cancer determine the stage of the cancer's development. Staging is important in determining the choice of therapy and the prognosis. Today in the United States, men have a 1 in 2 risk of developing cancer over their life time. For women the risk is 1 in 3.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in our country, exceeded only by heart disease.
There is evidence that approximately one-third of the cancer deaths are related to lifestyle factors and could be prevented . Prevention is the one area we can most influence. Cancer is caused by many factors. Our health is clearly a reflection of the environment to which we are exposed, our genetic makeup and our lifestyle choices. Below is a list of some of the recommendations The American Cancer Society offers to help you reduce your risk of cancer and to promote early detection .