GILBERT, Ariz. (Feb. 23, 2025) – February marks National Cancer Prevention Awareness Month, bringing to the forefront the importance of cancer prevention, routine screening and early detection. It’s especially important to reflect on as cancer cases continue to rise in younger adults.
Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center wants to share tips to help community members reduce their own risk of cancer. Matthew Ulrickson, MD, an oncologist with Banner MD Anderson specializing in cellular therapy, recently shared what he personally does to lower his own cancer risk.
“I’m a really big proponent of physical activity and suggest at least 20 to 30 minutes at a time, at least two to three times a week,” said Dr. Ulrickson. “I suggest starting from wherever you are to gradually increase as you are able. I also suggest finding at least two different types of activities that you like to do, so that you can alternate between the two either for more variety or if you need to rest a certain body part that is feeling sore to improve consistency.”
He also said he incorporates regular vegetables; lean proteins, such as chicken and fish; whole grains and fruits into his diet, and limits ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened drinks.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, and it’s often linked to sun exposure. In Arizona, UV rays from the sun and tanning beds can damage skin cells and lead to cancer. Dr. Ulrickson said he applies a lotion with SPF of at least 30 daily, even when it’s cloudy, to lower his own skin cancer risk.
“A daily lotion with SPF is an easy way to get some protection,” said Dr. Ulrickson. “When I am going to be out longer in the sun, especially during the peak hours between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. I suggest adding a hat, longer sleeves that have SPF protection and finding shade when you can.”
Tobacco is one of the top causes of lung, mouth, throat and bladder cancers. Dr. Ulrickson noted that avoiding tobacco is a crucial way to lower one’s cancer risk.
“If you're trying to find a way to quit, keep at it,” said Dr. Ulrickson. “A lot of times, it takes three or four attempts to finally be successful. Even if you don't get off entirely, less is still better than not attempting to cut down at all.”
Dr. Ulrickson said the best way to quit is with medication and counseling. The National Institutes of Health Quitline offers counseling at 1-800-784-8669 or by texting QUIT to 47848. You can also visit www.SmokeFree.gov for more information.
Finally, Dr. Ulrickson said he and his family have stayed up to date with cancer-preventing vaccinations and recommended cancer screenings, which can help find cancer earlier, when outcomes are typically better.
“You don’t need to remember yourself when various screenings should start if you establish care with a primary care provider,” he said. “Even if you are healthy, I encourage us all to get a PCP in our 30-40s to optimize prevention and screening.”
Some key vaccines and screenings to note include:
- HPV vaccination: Can prevent cervical, anal, vaginal, vulvar and some head and neck cancers and should be given to all people ages 9-26. Some people up to age 45 may also benefit.
- Colon cancer: People at average risk should start screenings at age 45 with a colonoscopy every 10 years, or stool tests every 1-3 years. If you are at increased risk, you may need to start earlier.
- Breast cancer: Ask your doctor for a breast cancer risk assessment when you are 25. From ages 25 to 39, get a clinical breast exam every one to three years. Start annual mammograms at age 40.
- Cervical cancer: Pap test every three years starting at age 21, or HPV test every five years starting at age 25. Women who receive the HPV vaccine may need fewer pap tests, but they should follow their doctor’s guidance.
- Prostate cancer: Men should ask their provider about PSA testing between age 45 and 50. Those at increased risk, for example Black men, should start at age 40.
While not all cancers can be prevented, Dr. Ulrickson said the steps you take to protect yourself can help you feel healthier, stronger and more in control.
“On behalf of people that have been diagnosed with cancer it is important to point out that there is no perfect way to prevent every cancer,” said Dr. Ulrickson. “For many people diagnosed with cancer, it’s not because they did something wrong and it is not their fault. But there are important things that we can do to help lower some of our risk.”
To learn more about lowering one’s cancer risk, visit our website.
About Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center
Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center delivers cancer care to patients through the partnership of Banner Health and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Banner MD Anderson offers focused disease-specific expertise in the medical, radiation and surgical management of the cancer patient; an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach to patient care; access to clinical trials and new investigative therapies; state-of-the-art technology for the diagnosis, staging and treatment of all types of cancer; oncology expertise in supportive care services. For more information, visit www.BannerMDAnderson.com.
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