Every year, nearly 2 million people are diagnosed with cancer. Taking steps to protect yourself may help prevent you from being diagnosed. At Condrell Primary Care in Washington, DC, and Bethesda, Maryland, William Condrell, MD, and the team take a proactive approach to medicine and specialize in cancer prevention. For a cancer prevention appointment, call the office nearest you or book one online today.
Cancer prevention refers to the proactive steps you and your health care provider take to protect yourself from cancer. This may include lifestyle changes, cancer screenings, and the use of medications or vaccines that prevent cancer from developing.
Condrell Primary Care is a full-service primary care practice that focuses on preventive health. When you come in for care, your provider may recommend cancer screenings to assess your risk depending on your gender and age.
Some of the cancer screenings offered include:
To assess for risk of prostate cancer, the team conducts a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Though not definitive, an elevated PSA may be an indicator of prostate cancer.
Skin cancer is very common, and the team conducts an evaluation of your skin during your annual physical to look for abnormal skin growths.
A Pap smear checks for changes in cervical cells that may be early indicators of cervical cancer. Women should begin Pap smears at age 21 and continue every three years up until age 65 unless otherwise directed by their provider.
To assess a woman’s risk for breast cancer, the team offers mammograms.
Depending on your lifestyle and family history, your provider may suggest other cancer screenings, such as lung, ovarian, or thyroid screens.
The Condrell Primary Care team works closely with you to develop a plan of action that protects you from cancer. In addition to the screenings, your provider may also:
Certain health conditions may also increase your risk of cancer, such as diabetes and obesity. Your provider can also help you manage these health conditions to improve your health and reduce your risk.
For many people, cancer is a scary word. But you can take steps that may help protect you from developing cancer. For cancer prevention, call Condrell Primary Care or request an appointment online today.