Cancer Screening Saves Lives

Adapted from article contributed by Audra Stewart-Gordon, Community Health and Communications Coordinator.

September is a time to raise awareness about cancers that affect many families and communities: prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, and gynecological cancers. Sparking awareness is important, but action is what saves lives. Screening and early detection make a real difference.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men after skin cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men in the United States. Risk increases with age, family history, and certain genetic factors.

Why screening matters: Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood tests and physical exams can find cancer early, when treatment is most effective.

When to screen: Men over age 50, and those at higher risk, such as African American men or men with a family history, should talk with their health care provider about screening.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is sometimes called the “silent killer” because symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, pelvic pain, or changes in appetite are often subtle and mistaken for other conditions.

Why screening matters: There is no standard test for ovarian cancer. Knowing the symptoms, keeping up with recommended gynecologic exams, and considering genetic testing, such as for BRCA mutations, are all important.

Take action: If you notice symptoms that do not go away, contact your doctor right away.

Gynecological Cancer

Gynecological cancers include cervical, uterine, vulvar, vaginal, and fallopian tube cancers. Each type has its own risks and warning signs.

Why screening matters:

• Pap tests and HPV screening can detect cervical cancer early, before it develops.

• Pelvic exams can help identify problems linked to other gynecologic cancers.

Pay attention to your body: Abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or changes in discharge should not be ignored.

Why Screenings Save Lives

Early detection leads to better outcomes. Screenings can mean:

• Less invasive treatment

• Higher survival rates

• More informed decisions for individuals and families

Local Resources in Maine

If you or someone you love needs support, these trusted resources can help:

• Healthy Acadia – Community health education, cancer prevention programs, and screening navigation in Hancock and Washington Counties.
  🌐 healthyacadia.org | ☎️ (207) 667-7171

• Maine Cancer Foundation – Statewide funding and support for prevention, early detection, and access to care.
  🌐 mainecancer.org

• Eastern Maine Medical Center (Northern Light Health) – PSA tests, Pap smears, gynecologic oncology services, and patient navigation.
  🌐 northernlighthealth.org

• Maine Breast and Cervical Health Program (MBCHP) – Free or low-cost screenings for eligible women.
  🌐 Maine DHHS MBCHP | ☎️ 1-800-350-5180

• American Cancer Society, Maine Chapter – Cancer information, support lines, and rides to treatment.
  🌐 cancer.org | ☎️ 1-800-227-2345

How You Can Take Action

• Talk with your provider about your family history and genetic testing.

• Schedule your recommended screenings (PSA, Pap, or HPV tests).

• Encourage friends and family to take preventive health seriously.

This article was developed with support from AI-assisted writing tools and reviewed by our team for accuracy and clarity.