Prevention and early detection

Alongside early cancer detection, cancer prevention is the most important basis for a life without cancer. The aim of cancer prevention is to actively prevent cancer through a healthy lifestyle and to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Scientists at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) estimate that around 40% of all expected new cancer cases in Germany can currently be attributed to cancer risk factors that can be influenced . Tobacco consumption is considered the most important controllable risk factor. In addition, diet, exercise and body weight have a particularly high potential for preventing cancer.

Early cancer detection

Early detection examinations or screening refers to the examination of symptom-free people for cancer or precancerous lesions. The aim is to prevent deaths from cancer. In Germany, women and men can be screened for various types of cancer during their lifetime. These include

• Colorectal cancer (women and men)
• Breast cancer (women)
• Prostate cancer (men)
• Cervical cancer (women)
• Skin cancer (women and men)

The costs of the examinations are covered by the health insurance companies. Participation in the cancer screening programs is voluntary. General practitioners and specialists can help you decide for or against an examination.

You can find detailed information on cancer screening here:

Cancer Information Service: Overview of cancer screening and early cancer detection