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Cancer Prevention

Cancer Prevention at UVM Cancer Center

There are many ways you can reduce your cancer risk. Healthy lifestyle choices can help decrease your chances of getting certain cancers. Screening tests can detect cancer early, when it is most treatable.

University of Vermont Cancer Center is here to help you understand and manage your risk of developing cancer. We provide precise, evidence-based medical imaging, laboratory tests and procedures to ensure accurate screenings for many common cancers. If we do find cancer, our experienced oncology team provides leading-edge treatments in a compassionate, supportive environment.

Why Choose UVM Cancer Center?

Community outreach: UVM Cancer Center promotes community awareness of different cancers. Monthly public health campaigns provide educational resources and information to help community members learn about risk factors and prevention for specific cancers. Learn more about our outreach.
Experienced team: Patients from across the region rely on us for routine procedures like colonoscopies, mammograms and CT scans for lung cancer. This experience allows us to offer exceptional care before, during and after your test.
Family genetic testing and counseling: We offer genetic testing if you have certain types of cancer or if cancer runs in your family. Our genetic counselors help you understand your cancer risk and provide screening recommendations.

Cancer Risk Factors

Research shows that certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing cancer. Making healthy lifestyle choices can help you reduce your risk. Experts recommend that you:

Avoid smoking cigarettes and other tobacco use
Limit the amount of alcohol you drink
Reduce your sun exposure and protect your skin while in the sun
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly
Avoid radiation and other cancer-causing substances
Protect yourself from viruses that cause cancer, such as hepatitis B and C and human papillomavirus (HPV)

There are other risk factors for cancer that cannot be controlled, such as age and genetics. If you are at higher risk of cancer due to your age (over 60) or your family history, it is important to discuss cancer screening with your doctor.

Cancer Genetic Testing

Most cancers occur due to random gene changes (mutations) and are not passed down through a family. However, about 10% of cancers are caused by inherited genetic variants (also known as mutations). You may be eligible for genetic testing if you have:

A family history of cancer
Cancer at a young age
Metastatic cancer that has spread to other areas of your body

The results of genetic testing can clarify your personal risk for cancer and determine whether your family members also have increased cancer risk. Our genetic counselors help you understand and process your results so you can determine your next steps. They also work with your doctor to recommend screenings for early detection and other prevention measures to reduce your cancer risk.

Learn more about genetic testing

My doctor eased my mind greatly. I feel so much better. She listened to me, understood what I was saying and where I was coming from.

UVM Cancer Center Patient

Cancer Causes & Prevention Research

UVM Cancer Center is home to researchers investigating the causes of cancer and how to reduce the burden of cancer through screening and prevention.

Research activities span three programs of the UVM Cancer Center: Cancer Cell, Cancer Host and Environment and Cancer Population Sciences.

Learn more

Cancer Care

Clinical Trials

The UVM Cancer Center supports more than 100 active clinical trials focused on prevention, screening, treatment, supportive care and survivorship.

View open trials

Awards & Certifications

Breast Imaging Center of Excellence

UVM Cancer Center maintains accreditation from the American College of Radiology (ACR) as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. This distinction is only awarded to top programs that consistently deliver safe, high-quality care. Breast Imaging Centers of Excellence have achieved ACR accreditation in all imaging tests, including mammography, stereotactic breast biopsy, breast ultrasound and breast MRI.

Lung Cancer Screening Center

UVM Cancer Center also maintains ACR accreditation as a Lung Cancer Screening Center. This endorsement is based on our expertise, high volume of chest CT scans and commitment to meeting all technical specifications set by the ACR.

Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy

UVM Cancer Center is accredited by the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT) for cellular therapy, stem cell transplants and cancers of the blood.