April 20, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov
Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge Community Action During Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month
WISE, Va. – April is Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month and the Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWICO Health Districts want you to know the critical importance of healthy lifestyles, immunizations, regular screenings, and early detection in reducing cancer risk and improving outcomes for Virginians.
“In communities across Virginia, especially in our rural areas, we know that the strongest defense against cancer starts with everyday choices and access to preventive care,” said Reisa Sloce, director, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Healthy lifestyles, staying up to date on immunizations, and getting regular screenings are critically important tools that can reduce risk and catch cancers early—when it they are most treatable. By prioritizing prevention and early detection, we can improve outcomes, save lives, and build healthier futures for all Virginians.”
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Virginia. Locally, Cumberland Plateau experiences 324.5 cancer cases and 190.3 cancer deaths per 100,000. The LENOWISCO Health District experiences 317 cancer cases and 207.6 cancer deaths per 100,000. The most common cancers in Virginia include breast, lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer.
Early detection through screening improves survival rates. Yet disparities persist in screening rates and outcomes among different communities.
The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts offer the following programs to help our community prevent cancer or lead to early diagnosis
- Every Woman’s Life (EWL): Provides free breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services to low-income, uninsured, or underinsured women in Virginia.
- Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Initiatives: VDH offers resources and support to help Virginians quit tobacco, a leading cause of many cancers.
Additionally, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWICO Health Department offers these prevention and early detection tips:
- Get regular screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancer as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Get vaccinated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. HPV vaccination prevents six different types of cancers from ever developing.
- Eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, and stay physically active.
- Avoid tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption.
- Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure.
To learn more about VDH cancer prevention programs, eligibility for free screenings, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/cancer/resources/ or call 1-800-CDC-INFO. For more information contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.