Michigan Creates Prevention Plan to Reduce Cancer Rates in State

1406

With nearly 60 state residents dying from cancer every day, first lady Sue Snyder along with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Michigan Cancer Consortium, unveiled a plan to address the devastating effects of cancer and decrease the number of cancer deaths.

“As a 12-year breast cancer survivor, I know the suffering it causes,” says Snyder, who is heading up the plan. “I applaud the work of the Michigan Cancer Consortium and the release of the new cancer plan that will help raise awareness around prevention and save lives.”

The plan states that cancer treatment studies and clinical trials should be available and accessible for all Michigan residents. The plan recommends vaccines and screenings, and offers instructions for cancer patients when their treatment ends.

“The objectives in this plan are proven strategies in the fight against cancer and it’s my hope that we can raise awareness to ensure that Michigan residents talk with their health care providers about the prevention and screening measures that are right for them,” says Dr. Eden Wells, chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Dr. Wells says the plan is aimed at addressing preventative measures for residents of all ages, including recommendations about what providers and residents can do.

In addition to recommendations for detecting and dealing with cancer, to prevent cancer residents are encouraged to:​

  • Don’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco
  • Limit alcohol intake
  • Get your children vaccinated for HPV (human papillomavirus)
  • Maintain an active lifestyle
  • Make healthy food choices
  • Maintain a healthy body weight
  • Discuss family history of cancer with your health care provider
  • Test your home for radon
  • Limit ultraviolet light exposure from the sun or tanning beds