What to Know about Cancer Prevention in 2025
And Why Screenings STILL Matter
Will 2025 be the year of health and wellness? If social media feeds of Dry January-inspired mocktails are any indication, there’s growing public interest in both these focus areas. But will our commitment to better well-being persist? According to Forbes Health, the average New Year’s resolution lasts less than four months. If we truly want to enhance our longevity and reduce our cancer risk, we must skip the drastic quick fixes and implement lifestyle changes.
At CARTI, we firmly believe one of the best places to start is patient education. Once equipped with resources and support, we feel more empowered to make informed decisions to prioritize and protect our health. So, in that spirit, here’s what we should know as we consider our wellness goals for 2025—and beyond:
Cigarettes and tobacco-containing products should be avoided. American Cancer Society research shows cigarette smoking as the leading risk factor for cancer, contributing to more than half of all potentially preventable cancers in men and nearly 40% in women.
A balanced diet matters. Consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods helps us maintain a healthy weight, stay physically active and support our immune systems. The American Institute for Cancer Research shows it can also improve treatment outcomes.
Exercise counts, no matter the method or duration. Physical activity is directly linked to a lower incidence rate of certain cancers. Even in short bursts, exercise can protect cognitive function and improve quality of life, among other benefits.
Proper rest is critical. Poor sleep makes us susceptible to illness and disease, including breast, colon, ovarian and prostate cancer. Adequate rest, approximately 7-9 hours a night, bolsters our immune system and protects our physical and mental health.
Screenings save lives. Receiving the recommended screenings, such as 3D mammograms for breast cancer and low-dose CT scans for lung cancer, is crucial for finding diseases sooner when treatment is more effective. We should talk to our health care providers about our risk, including whether additional testing is needed.
In 2025, let’s avoid guilt over abandoned New Year’s resolutions and aim for consistent progress. Our on-site support services center, The Bridge, offers free in-person and virtual programs for those looking for help. Visit CARTI.com for more information.
Morgan Gary, PA-C, a physician assistant in radiation oncology, helps oversee CARTI’s health and longevity clinic at its flagship campus in Little Rock.