National Cancer Prevention Month in NEPA

Did you know February is National Cancer Prevention Month?

In February, communities across the country unite to raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.

At Griswold Home Care for NEPA, serving Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties, we understand the unique challenges our region faces regarding cancer. This month, we’re committed to sharing how you can reduce your cancer risk, connecting you with local NEPA resources, and showing how our Caregivers support families throughout their cancer prevention and treatment journeys.

Cancer Prevention

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, here in Northeastern Pennsylvania, an estimated 10,841 individuals are diagnosed with cancer each year in the 10 County area defined as Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA). This includes Carbon, Lackawanna, Lehigh, Luzerne, Monroe, Northampton, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming Counties. However, there’s hope! The World Health Organization reports that 30-50% of all cancers can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices. Here are steps you can take to lower your risk:

1. Stay Active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. Regular movement helps reduce the risk of multiple cancer types.
2. Protect Your Skin: Always wear sunscreen, stay in the shade, and wear hats or layers to block harsh UV rays.
3. Get Screened: Early detection dramatically improves survival rates. Talk to your doctor about screenings.
4. Eat Well: Focus on colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. Cut back on sugars and ultra-processed foods that can increase cancer risk.
5. Quit Smoking: Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of cancer. Resources are available to help you quit, and avoiding secondhand smoke is equally important.

Local Resources

Cancer Screening Options in NEPA:

The Northeast Regional Cancer Institute (NRCI), with locations in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, has been open for over 30 years, opening in 1991. Their mission is to ease the burden of cancer in Northeastern Pennsylvania. They provide screening tests to find early-stage cancers and also offer local cancer support groups.

The Cancer Institute’s Community-Based Cancer Screening Navigation Program facilitates screening for breast, cervical, and colon cancer among low-income, uninsured, and underinsured individuals in northeast Pennsylvania. Learn more about the screenings they offer here.

The Pennsylvania Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (PA-BCCEDP) is a free breast and cervical cancer screening program of the Pennsylvania Health Department. Learn if you or a loved one may be eligible here.

Commonwealth Health, a trusted healthcare provider in Northeastern Pennsylvania, encourages early detection of lung cancer through screenings. They suggest CT scans because they are an easy and painless option.

Support Groups & Wellness Programs:

The Cancer Wellness Center has proudly supported and served cancer clients and their families in NEPA for more than 25 years. Their classes and services offer free, holistic support to cancer patients and survivors, including support groups, wellness programs, and specialized therapies.

24/7 Help:

The American Cancer Society provides 24/7 support, including cancer-related information, referrals to patient programs, and more. Contact them via live chat or call 1-800-227-2345.

Griswold Can Help

Whether you’re working to prevent cancer through lifestyle changes or navigating a diagnosis, Griswold Home Care of NEPA offers personalized support tailored to your needs. Cancer prevention and treatment require consistent effort, and our compassionate Caregivers are here to make that journey easier. We provide:

• Meal Preparation: Help with planning and preparing nutritious meals.
• Encourage Physical Activity: Companionship during daily walks or light activity.
• Transportation to Appointments: Reliable rides to appointments to help manage your health.
• Medication Reminders: Assistance with medication tracking or treatment plan.
• Emotional Support: A compassionate presence during challenging times.

Our goal is to help you maintain independence and quality of life while prioritizing your health. Whether you need assistance with daily tasks or support in maintaining healthy habits, Griswold Home Care of NEPA is here for you and your family

Contact Us

During National Cancer Prevention Month, commit to positive changes. Whether you’re in Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Kingston, or anywhere in Luzerne or Lackawanna County, Griswold Home Care for NEPA is here to support you.

Call Griswold today to learn how our compassionate Caregivers can support you and your family.