The early diagnosis and treatment of cancer is of the utmost importance in light of the limitations which exist in relation to the primary prevention of cancer. At the present time cancer of most sites is not preventable; thus early detection of abnormal cells, accurate diagnosis, and prompt adequate treatment are the only means of controlling disability and preventing death. It has been estimated that if cellular changes indicating possible cancer are: detected early, and prompt adequate treatment is provided, cancer deaths could be reduced by one-third. It has also been estimated if all cervical cancer could be detected and treated in the preinvasive stage, the survival rate could be 100 percent. To obtain this goal certain obligations must be assumed by medical and allied professions, and by patients themselves.

2 Breast Cancer, Emerson Day, the second Biennial Louisiana Cancer Conference, Segaloff, Albert, editor, p. 31.

3 Gynecologic and Obstetric Pathology. Novak. Emil, M.D.. and Novak, Edmund, M.D., W. B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia and London, 1958. p. 105.

The public must have accurate data on cancer made available, must be well informed as to signs and symptoms, and must have access to facilities for diagnosis and treatment. Though prompt reporting of signs and symptoms is emphasized in health instructions, periodic medical examination of symptomless patients has long been accepted as the best means of detecting early cancer. Once the physician suspects cancer, there should be no delay in obtaining a definitive diagnosis and adequate treatment. It has been reported that patients with abnormal uterine bleeding have waited as long as a year before seeking medical advice. The potential cancer patient must be informed that delay in obtaining a diagnosis and treatment reduces his chance of survival and may increase his degree of disability. The presence of one of the seven "danger signals"4 is an indication that medical consultation and evaluation should be sought immediately:

1. Unusual bleeding or discharge.

2. A lump or thickening in the breast or elsewhere.

3. A sore that does not heal.

4. Persistent change in bowel or bladder habits.

5. Persistent hoarseness or cough.

6. Persistent indigestion or difficulty in swallowing.

7. Change in a wart or mole.

Medical and allied professional personnel are responsible for supplying accurate and useful cancer information to the public, and offering service which will be instrumental in helping a patient obtain adequate treatment and the most effective rehabilitation possible.