Each year, millions of American families are impacted by cancer. But cancer does not affect all communities equally.
Nationally, Black Americans experience higher cancer rates, including for breast and prostate cancer, and have the highest overall cancer death rate among racial and ethnic groups, according to the American Cancer Society.
For Black seniors in particular, there is also historical caution regarding the healthcare system to consider.
April is Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month, and it’s a good time for us to come together to encourage and enable routine screenings to keep our seniors healthy.
Throughout my career caring for older adults, I have seen too many seniors postpone screenings like mammograms or colonoscopies because they feel healthy, believe they are not at risk, or simply are not aware of the screenings recommended for their age group.
Because many cancers are treatable and, in some cases, preventable or detectable before symptoms ever appear, it’s critical that we support seniors by expanding access to primary care; strengthening culturally responsive healthcare services; and providing clear information about what services are covered by their health plans.
The Importance of Screenings
Routine screenings for breast, colorectal, and skin cancers can make a meaningful difference in detecting disease early, when treatment is often more effective.
Screening guidelines can sometimes feel confusing for patients. A trusted doctor can help personalize screening recommendations based on an individual’s health history, risk factors and overall wellness.
Research also shows that coordinated, patient-centered care models that emphasize prevention can improve screening rates. When seniors maintain regular contact with their primary care providers, those care teams can help manage screenings, monitor chronic conditions and ensure preventive care remains a priority.
Prevention Beyond Screenings
Screenings are an important part of reducing cancer risk. So are healthy lifestyle habits. Small, consistent changes toward healthier lifestyle habits make a meaningful difference, even later in life.
I often encourage patients to focus on simple, sustainable steps that support long-term wellness:
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins while limiting processed foods, added sugars and excessive alcohol.
- Stay physically active: Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of several cancers, including breast, colon and kidney cancer.
- Avoid tobacco: Tobacco use remains one of the most significant risk factors for cancer and quitting can have immediate health benefits.
- Protect your skin: Limiting prolonged sun exposure and using sunscreen can reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Removing Barriers and Providing Support
Some of my patients are surprised to learn that a number of preventive cancer screenings are covered by insurance at little or no cost.
Then there’s the wariness of the unknown, whether related to a procedure or the possibility of receiving difficult news. Open conversations with a trusted healthcare provider can help.
Family members and caregivers can play an important role, by encouraging loved ones to schedule screenings, helping with transportation, or offering support during appointments.
Cancer prevention often begins with a conversation and a simple step forward. We in the community can support seniors in taking this important journey.
By staying connected with their healthcare providers and keeping up with recommended screenings, Black seniors can take meaningful steps to protect their health and continue enjoying the moments that matter most with the people they love.
