September is recognized as Gynecologic and Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. The Westchester County Department of Health and the Westchester County Office for Women are encouraging residents to discuss cancer screenings and prevention strategies with their healthcare providers.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in 2023, breast cancer was the second leading cause of death among women, while uterine and ovarian cancers ranked fifth and sixth among causes of cancer deaths in women. Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer among men aside from non-melanoma skin cancer, and was the second leading cause of cancer death in men last year. The CDC notes that African-American men face a higher risk of prostate cancer and are twice as likely to die from it compared to other groups. Ashkenazi Jewish men also have an increased risk due to genetic factors.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins stated: “I strongly encourage women and men to make their health a priority by scheduling routine cancer screenings. Early detection saves lives, so please don’t procrastinate with your healthcare.”
Dr. Sherlita Amler, Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Health, said: “Some cancers can be present with few or no symptoms, so if you do experience unusual symptoms, tell your healthcare provider. Early detection is key to the many new treatments now available. We strongly encourage regular screenings for breast, gynecological and prostate cancers.”
Robi Schlaff, Director of the Westchester County Office for Women, added: “Cancer screenings can save your life. Ask your doctor which preventive cancer screenings are right for you given your risk factors and family history, and learn ways to reduce your risks through lifestyle changes.”
Recommended screenings for women include pap tests for cervical cancer, mammograms (sometimes with ultrasound) for breast cancer, and pelvic ultrasounds for ovarian cancer if recommended by a physician based on symptoms or risk factors. Men between ages 55 to 69 are advised to consult their doctors about whether a Prostate Specific Antigen test is appropriate.
Genetic testing may be considered by both women and men who have a family history of breast, ovarian or prostate cancers. Testing for Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to six types of cancers including cervical and certain throat cancers, may also be discussed with healthcare providers. The HPV vaccine helps prevent transmission of this virus; free vaccines are available at county clinics in White Plains and Yonkers for eligible adults and children starting at age nine.
A series of support groups, educational sessions, screenings, and events related to cancer awareness will take place throughout September:
– September 2 at 4 p.m.: Cancer Support Team’s After Treatment Support Group meets via Zoom.
– September 3 at 1 p.m.: Cancer Support Community Greater NY & CT’s Living with Cancer Group meets via Zoom; more information is available at https://cancersupportcommunitynyct.org/join-our-community/.
– September 3, 10, and 24 at 7 p.m.: Cancer Support Team’s Breast, Ovarian and Gynecological Cancer Post-Treatment Support Group convenes via Zoom.
– September 18 at 6 p.m.: David Pogue will speak on Artificial Intelligence and Healthcare at The DRIPBaR Rye during a benefit event supporting services for women with gynecological cancers; tickets can be obtained by contacting Support Connection.
– September 24 at 4 p.m.: Cancer Support Team’s Anxiety and Cancer Support Group meets via Zoom.
– October 1 at 4 p.m.: Cancer Support Team’s Ovarian Cancer Support Group gathers via Zoom.
Additional health tips and resources are available on the county website www.westchestergov.com/health or by calling (914) 813-5000.
