You have the power to reduce your risk of new or recurring cancer

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Approximately 30% to 50%* of cancers diagnosed today could be prevented through behavioral and lifestyle changes, combined with timely screenings and vaccinations.

At Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of UHealth - University of Miami Health System, we deeply understand cancer risk through our research, and we're here to guide you on a journey of empowerment, resilience and wellbeing.

Navigating the complexity of cancer risk involves more than acknowledging the impact of lifestyle choices such as regular alcohol and tobacco consumption, sedentarism, poor diet and ongoing sunlight exposure; it also requires an understanding of genetic predisposition and the potential for recurring cancers within families. Identifying genetic predisposition syndromes that significantly elevate the risk of certain cancers empower individuals and families to make informed decisions.

While discovering one is at a higher risk for cancer isn't news anyone wants to receive, it can make a life-changing difference.

*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

HOW DO I KNOW MY CANCER RISK?

Our online assessment will help guide you to understand which clinic is right for you.

Take the first step

High-Risk CLINIC

An individual can be referred to the High-risk Clinic if they haven't received a cancer diagnosis, and haven't gone through genetic testing with or without family history of cancer. This excludes individuals with known familial genetic mutations.

GENETIC PREDISPOSITION SYNDROME (GPS) Clinic

An individual can be referred to the GPS Clinic if they or a first-degree family member have been diagnosed with a genetic predisposition. This includes individuals who have not been previously diagnosed with cancer or those who have and are not on active treatment.

Embark on
a journey
of small steps

Reducing cancer risk is not about drastic changes; it's about taking small, manageable steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Practical actions, such as regular screening tests, understanding family history and making behavioral and lifestyle changes are key in safeguarding overall wellbeing. Our team of experts will develop personalized plans for you and your loved ones to help reduce your cancer risk.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO REDUCE YOUR RISK

Get regular screening tests

Screening is instrumental in early cancer detection, often before symptoms emerge. Detecting cancer at an early stage enhances treatment options and increases the likelihood of a cure.

Know your family history

Certain cancers have a genetic basis, with over 50 hereditary types identified, including breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, colon and other cancers. Early identification of individuals with these genes greatly improves outcomes and survival rates.

Make some behavioral and lifestyle changes

Adopting behavioral and lifestyle changes significantly contribute to reducing overall cancer risk. Consider incorporating the following habits into your routine:

Quit smoking. UHealth's award-winning Smoking Cessation Program provides support and tools for individuals aiming to become tobacco-free.
Maintain a healthy weight. Weight management is vital, as excess body fat raises the risk of serious diseases. Use Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference as screening tools to assess your weight status and potential health risks.
Exercise regularly. Lower the risk of common cancers by adhering to recommended exercise guidelines. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week for adults (18-64) and older adults (65 ).
Eat a healthy diet. A nutritious diet enhances vitality and reduces risks of heart disease, diabetes and cancers. Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
Drink alcohol in moderation. According to the American Cancer Society, it is best not to drink alcohol. Individuals who choose to drink alcohol should limit their intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink a day for women.
Reduce sun exposure. Prevent skin cancer, the most widespread form in the U.S., by minimizing sun exposure, using SPF 15 sunscreen and wearing protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.
Get vaccinated. Prioritize cancer prevention by maintaining up-to-date vaccinations. Essential shots, such as the HPV vaccine, serve as a shield against head and neck, cervical, back of the throat, anal, penile, vulvar and vaginal cancers.
Practice safe behaviors. Avoid risky behaviors, like practicing unprotected sex or sharing needles, that can lead to infections that might increase the risk of cancer.

WHY DISCOVER YOUR RISK WITH SYLVESTER?

Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is your most trusted partner to help reduce your risk of a new or recurring cancer. We offer the most advanced techniques to assess your risk and that of your family members and have a multidisciplinary team of experts who will guide you every step of you or your loved one's journey. Only Sylvester offers personalized care plans that are informed by our own research and provides ongoing monitoring, supporting your overall physical and emotional well-being.

Our Genetic Predisposition Syndrome (GPS) Clinic is focused on long-term follow-up of those with a genetic mutation in addition to early risk identification and optimal care for family members that may have a high-risk of a hereditary cancer. It is one of just a few clinics of its kind available in the United States.

Sylvester is South Florida's only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated and academic-based cancer center. Grounded in research, it helps set the standard in medical excellence. Our team goes beyond conventional care, specializing in cancer prevention and survivorship and lifestyle medicine.