As Mother’s Day quickly approaches, our female loved ones are on the forefront of our minds. What better way to honor these individuals then to remind them to take care of themselves by asking their doctor about yearly cancer screenings, such as an annual mammogram. Mammography can detect breast cancer at an early stage when treatment may be more effective.

Early detection—finding a cancer early before it has spread—gives individuals the best chance to do something about it. Knowing about these cancers and prevention steps can save their life.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death among women with lung cancer being the top killer followed by breast and colon cancers. Other cancers that most frequently affect women are endometrial, ovarian, skin, and cervical cancers. In the United States, it’s estimated that more than 270,000 women will die from cancer this year. Many cancers are linked to poor nutrition, physical inactivity, obesity and other lifestyles factors including smoking.

But there is hope; by following simple measures women can reduce their risk for cancer and other diseases. Women are encouraged to:

• Follow the American Cancer Society screening guidelines, available online at www.cancer.org or by calling (800) 227-2345. Get regular health check ups. Visit with physicians about testing for breast, colon, cervical, and skin cancer; and based on family history visit with their doctor on how often to be tested.
• Eat a variety of healthful foods, emphasizing plant sources such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, limit red meat, adopt a physically active lifestyle, maintain a healthful weight throughout life, and limit alcohol consumption.
• Avoid smoking or other tobacco products. The American Cancer Society can help smokers quit, through telephone counseling sessions by calling (800) 227-2345.
• Limit or avoid sun exposure during midday hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). When outdoors, wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. The most serious form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, will be diagnosed in approximately 62,480 people in 2008.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service. For more information on cancer prevention, early detection, and services call the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.