NORTHEAST PA — The Northeast Regional Cancer Institute (NRCI), a local community-based nonprofit organization, has released its latest report on cancer in the region, titled “Cancer in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Incidence and Mortality for Common Cancers.” The report is available at www.cancernepa.org. 

The report was compiled by staff from NRCI, and documents that both incidence and mortality rates for cancer remain significantly higher in NEPA than in the broader U.S. It also identifies those specific cancer sites for which there is a disparity in either incidence or mortality. 

The report notes that in NEPA, there are statistically significantly higher incidence rates for cancer of the lung, larynx, oral cavity and pharynx, esophagus, colon and rectum, urinary bladder, pancreas, thyroid, uterus and Hodgkin’s lymphoma compared to the U.S. 

Evidence-based screenings are available for breast, cervical, colon and lung cancer that can reduce deaths from these cancers and in the case of cervical and colon cancer, could prevent cancers from developing. Primary care providers are well suited to advise individuals on what screenings are appropriate based on age, gender, personal and family history, risk factors and eligibility criteria for screenings.

The goal in sharing these data is to raise awareness across the community and to promote collaborative efforts to reduce the risk of select cancers through healthy lifestyle choices and adherence to proper screening guidelines. 

For additional information or if you would like a hard copy of the full report, call the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute at 570/904-8808 or email karen.ryczak@cancernepa.org.