American Cancer Society report details cancer prevention efforts

• More than two-thirds (68.7%) of youth reported getting sunburned during summer months. Sunburn rates were higher in youth with the most sensitive skin type (84.5%) and in girls (71.5%).
• In a national 2004 survey, about one-third of adolescents aged 11 to 18 years reported using sunscreen always or often during the past summer and only 20% protected themselves always or often by seeking the shade; even fewer (10%) used protective clothing (long sleeves or pants) regularly.
• In a national 2005 survey of adults, 28.3% reported always or often using sunscreen when outside for an hour or more on a sunny day, and 43.4% reported seeking shade.

The report notes that, despite stalls in some favorable trends, marked progress has been achieved by some high priority advocacy efforts. At the time of publication, twenty-nine states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico had implemented or enacted statewide smoking bans that prohibit smoking in workplaces, and/or restaurants and/or bars, and 2,791 municipalities had passed some form of smoke-free legislation (Iowa became the thirtieth state to enact a statewide smoking ban earlier this month). The rate of colorectal cancer screening has increased in part due to expanded coverage by Medicare and private health insurance. These changes came about as a direct result of advocacy efforts, including legislation enacted in 22 states and the District of Columbia to ensure that private health insurance plans cover the full range of colorectal cancer screening tests.

“Last April, President George W. Bush signed into law legislation to reauthorize and expand the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (H.R. 1132), which included increased funding targets over the next five years,” said Dr. Brawley. “These and other efforts must continue in order to continue the decline in cancer death rates overall and make sure that the benefits of early detection and treatment are available to all members of the population.”

The full report can be viewed by visiting the American Cancer Society Web site at www.cancer.org/statistics.

About the American Cancer Society The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.