Being diagnosed with cancer is devastating. Yet, most people would be surprised to know that 40 percent of all cancers diagnosed are attributed to preventable causes, according to the American Association of Cancer Research (AACR). February is National Cancer Prevention Month and brings to light what people can do to prevent that unwanted diagnosis.

One of the best steps toward prevention is through education and awareness. Gothenburg Health cares about educating patients and helping them live their best lives with innovative care that promotes healthy communities.

According to the AACR, prevention can include steps such as quitting smoking (or never starting in the first place), maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, protecting your skin from the sun, and getting vaccinated against certain cancers. Modifying behaviors is just one way that people can impact cancer outcomes.

Additionally, it is important to know what resources are available to those who are at high risk. Someone who is over 50 and a current or former smoker is at high risk for lung cancer. While lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in America, there is hope. Sixty percent of patients improved their survival rate by five or more years with something as simple as early detection with low dose CT scans, according to the American Lung Association (ALA). Screening is used to detect lung cancer early when it is more likely to be curable.

A low-dose CT scan is a special kind of x-ray that takes multiple pictures and then combines those images into a detailed picture. Gothenburg Health offers low-dose CT scan with an order from a primary care provider. This is one step that can be taken toward prevention and early detection.

For more information about cancer prevention, visit the AACR and ALA websites, contact your primary care provider, or call Gothenburg Health at 308-537-3661.