Prevent and protect
I'm interested in being proactive
Learn about cancer and how to reduce your risks with proactive choices and healthy habits.
Take control of your wellbeing.
Be in the know
Empower your cancer care journey and take control of your wellbeing by learning more about cancer and the risks.
Understanding cancer risks
According to the CDC, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States — only behind heart disease. While some risk factors are outside of our control, such as aging or family history and genetics, some risk factors are within our control, including:
- Exposure to specific chemicals and radiation, including ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun
- Using tobacco
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Being overweight or obese
While there’s no sure way to prevent cancer, knowing the risks and taking steps to reduce them can help you better manage your health.
Cancer overview
Cancer is a condition in which some of the body’s abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably, growing and spreading to other parts of the body. Cancer cells grow rapidly and can sometimes form tumors, or clusters of cells that grow and divide uncontrollably. Some common forms of cancer include breast cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer and colon cancer.
The condition journey
It may feel overwhelming when facing a cancer diagnosis. There are many types of cancer, and it can develop anywhere in the body. While cancers are alike in some ways, they can be very different in the ways they grow, spread and respond to treatment. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has developed individualized guides on more than 120 types of cancer.* Each guide provides comprehensive information on symptoms, stages, types of treatment, follow-up care and more.
* This information is for informational purposes and convenience only; Dow is not responsible for the accuracy of information contained in third-party sites and does not recommend or endorse the content provided on the site; information provided is not meant to replace a physician’s medical advice.
Recently facing a cancer diagnosis?
Learn about common terms you may hear throughout your cancer care journey.
Take preventive actions
There are actions you can take for the prevention and early detection of cancer, including frequent screening tests, vaccines and making healthy choices.
Screenings and vaccines
Regular screenings can help you detect cancer early — before you even have symptoms, when treatment is likely to work best. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends several specific screenings to get regularly, or for those who may be at high risk for lung cancer.
In addition to regular screenings, there are also vaccines available, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B vaccine, that can help prevent or lower your risk of some cancers, including cervical and liver cancers. Be sure to speak with your provider about which screenings and vaccines are right for you.
Healthy lifestyle
There are a few healthy habits that can help you lower your risk of most cancers, including avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight.
Genetic testing
Family history and genetics are risk factors for cancer. If you’re concerned that your family history puts you at a greater risk for cancer, you may consider genetic testing to help you better understand your risk of developing hereditary cancer. The Dow medical plans may cover genetic testing, subject to certain medical requirements. Contact your medical carrier using the number on the back of your ID card for specific information and criteria.
Dow provides resources to support you every step of the way...
- Dow Wellbeing Portal puts resources at your fingertips that can help you take the first step toward better health. This includes coaching as well as specific journeys, which are self-guided courses to help you develop healthy habits. Some topics related to cancer include: Living Well With a Cancer Diagnosis and Body Image After Illness or Injury.
- Spring Health (Dow’s Employee Assistance Program partner) offers personalized, convenient care and resources to support your overall wellbeing and to help you through any of life’s challenges.
- Quit for Life® can help you kick the tobacco habit for good. Not only can smoking cause cancer, but the toxins in cigarette smoke can weaken your immune system, making it harder to kill cancer cells.
- Online information and resources are available to help you learn about and maximize all that Dow makes available to support your overall health.