Like any disease, cancer can come at any time and impact any family. But with dedicated doctors and researchers, we have made great strides in recent decades to understand and treat this terrible disease. Much of that progress is attributed to a concerted effort between charitable organizations, government funding and some of the brightest minds in the medical field working toward a cure. National Cancer Prevention Awareness Month offers us an opportunity to consider how we can be part of the fight against cancer and reflect on the progress we’ve made both together and individually.

Cancer has impacted nearly all of us. For many of us, that may have come in the form of watching a family member or friend battle it, and some of you may have had to fight that battle yourselves. To those who have had to endure that fight, your strength, resilience and courage are an inspiration. And to those who have been by their side, your love and support are a big part of what we are celebrating this month.

Awareness and education are powerful tools in the fight against cancer. According to the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), in the U.S., many of the biggest declines in cancer rates and deaths have come from effective public education and policy efforts. For example, a nationwide effort to reduce tobacco use had dramatic effects on U.S. adults, as the number of smokers in America dropped from 42.4% in 1965 all the way down to 11.5% in 2021, notes the research organization.

For our part, we can participate in cancer awareness month by taking steps to reduce risk factors contributing to cancer. The AACR suggests healthy eating, protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure, exercising and quitting smoking for those who do smoke as strategies to help reduce our cancer risk. Further, talking to your doctor about what screenings make sense based on your age and family and medical history is also advisable.

The American Red Cross calls on National Cancer Prevention Awareness Month participants to wear lavender in support of the effort and consider hosting or attending health fairs, awareness walks or runs and social meet-ups. Early detection is an important part of cancer prevention, and these events can be a great catalyst for getting people checked. For those who can, the Red Cross is also collecting blood platelets, which are critical for those undergoing cancer treatment.

Lastly, another meaningful way to honor cancer survivors and patients is by simply giving them a call. Reach out to a family member or friend and let them know you are thinking of them this month. A small gesture of kindness can go a long way, and I encourage you to use February as an opportunity to spread some—like with most things, we are stronger when we tackle cancer together.

If you have any questions or comments on this or any other state issue, or if you would like to be added to my mailing list or receive my newsletter, please contact my office. My office can be reached by mail at 19 Canalview Mall, Fulton, NY 13069 and by email at barclayw@nyassembly.gov.