Cancer prevention and screening

People often talk about cancer as just one disease, but there are more than 100 different types of cancer. And every cancer case is unique. Some cancers have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. Other cancers give clues about what’s going on inside your body. 

If you’re concerned about symptoms you’re experiencing, don't ignore them. For example, bright red blood after a bowel movement can be from rectal bleeding — a common symptom of colon cancer. Early signs of skin cancer include changes in the shape, color, or size of moles or lesions. If you notice something that’s not normal for you, get it checked so your doctor can guide you through next steps.

Explore the symptom checker

Your best defense against most cancers is regular screenings for early detection. Kaiser Permanente is a national leader in cancer screening rates for the most common types of cancer.³ 

As a Kaiser Permanente member, your personal doctor will help you set up a screening plan. They may recommend you get screened more often than others based on your cancer risk. For example, family history can increase your risk of getting cancer, and some cancers are more common among certain racial backgrounds. Your electronic health record will keep track of your screening plan and let you know when it’s time for the next one.

Screening recommendations based on your health history

Understanding your genetic cancer risk is an important step. Some cancers are hereditary, meaning they’re related to genes in your body that can be passed from parent to child. This makes some people more likely to develop cancer than others. 

Gather your family history and track any cancer in your family on a family history form. Genetic testing can be used to find changes in your genes or chromosomes that may cause cancer. Genetic counseling can help you understand your inherited cancer risk.

Using your family history, your doctor can help set up a personalized plan for you. It may include more regular screenings or specific lifestyle recommendations to help prevent cancer.

Download a sample family history form

Although the exact cause of cancer isn’t known, there are certain factors that can increase your risk of getting cancer. You may not be able to control all risk factors, but you can make healthy lifestyle changes that reduce your cancer risk.

Positive practices for a healthier life include regular exercise, good nutrition, and managing stress. Drinking less alcohol, quitting smoking, and wearing sunblock also can help reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer. 

You can even take steps to prevent conditions that lead to cancer — like HPV. HPV causes most cervical cancer, but vaccination is one way to make sure you don’t get the virus. Together, vaccination and regular screenings can help prevent cervical cancer. That’s why we’re proud to say that we're in the top 10% in the nation for cervical cancer screenings and in the top 5% in the nation for HPV vaccinations.⁴

At Kaiser Permanente, we lead the nation in promoting healthy living for our members.⁵ The following resources are available without a referral and can help you make healthy lifestyle changes.

• Attend a health education class online or in your area to get tips and connect with others on a similar path.⁶ 
• Connect with a wellness coach by phone to get one-on-one guidance. 
• Browse our Recipes library and find ways to add new healthy foods to your diet. 
• Download our self-care apps and use them daily to relieve stress.
• Take our Total Health Assessment to get healthy lifestyle recommendations based on your current health.

Learn more about lifestyle changes that may help prevent cancer