At Coastal Cancer Center, our mission goes beyond treatment – we’re committed to educating
and empowering our community. Cancer is a complex disease, but with the proper knowledge,
proactive steps, and access to care, we can make a real difference in prevention, early detection,
and the journey to recovery. Here’s how you can protect your health, support others, and stay
informed about the latest in cancer care.

Know the Risk Factors
Cancer doesn’t discriminate, but certain factors can increase your risk. These include:
• Tobacco use (including smoking and smokeless tobacco)
• Prolonged sun exposure and indoor tanning
• Poor diet
• Physical inactivity
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Family history of cancer or genetic predisposition
• Exposure to environmental carcinogens
Awareness of and avoiding these risk factors is the first step toward prevention.

Stay Up to Date on Screenings
Screening can detect cancer before symptoms appear, when it’s most treatable. Early detection
and treatment can sometimes prevent cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. Some
regular screening recommendations include:
• Mammograms (breast cancer): Women ages 40+
• Pap smears & HPV testing (cervical cancer): Women ages 21–65
• Colonoscopy or stool tests (colorectal cancer): Adults 45+
• Low-dose CT scans (lung cancer): High-risk individuals, typically smokers over 50
Talk to your healthcare provider about the screenings that are right for you.

Recognize Common Symptoms
While symptoms vary by cancer type, early warning signs may include:
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
• Persistent pain
• Changes in the skin (new moles or changes in existing ones)
• Unusual bleeding or discharge
• Lumps or thickening in the breast or other parts of the body
Don’t ignore symptoms—early action saves lives.

Healthy Habits That Reduce Your Risk

Quit Smoking
Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable cancer. Quitting, even later in life,
significantly reduces your risk.

Protect Your Skin
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. Protect yourself by wearing broadspectrum
sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher), seeking shade during peak hours (10 a.m. –
4 p.m.), and wearing protective clothing and sunglasses.

Eat Well & Stay Active
A healthy lifestyle helps your body fight disease and lowers your cancer risk:
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit processed foods, red meats, and added sugars
• Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly
• Maintain a healthy weight

Together, We Can Make a Difference
Whether you’re trying to prevent cancer, supporting a loved one, or navigating your own
diagnosis, knowledge is power. Coastal Cancer Center is committed to providing education,
compassionate care, and the latest in cancer treatment.

Visit www.coastalcancercenter.com to find which location is nearest to you.