Applied cancer prevention and the primary caregiver. A challenge to the community.

The cure rate for cancer can be increased from the current 51% to 75% by the year 2000. Two important actions that will make this goal possible are the prevention of cancers that are caused by known carcinogens and the earlier detection of cancer in asymptomatic individuals. Current knowledge about the cause of cancer makes it prudent for persons to change their lifestyles (primary prevention). Tobacco products are the number one culprit in cancer cause and it is estimated that 30% of all cancer deaths in the United States would not occur if tobacco use had been avoided. The sound principles of cancer prevention and early detection need to be applied by primary care physicians and community cancer centers working together. Caution must be advised when recommending a variety of diets and medicines that, as yet, have no proven value in cancer prevention. Cancer control research is needed to expand cancer control applications in a cost effective and acceptable manner.