AZCCC provides recommendations to help families build healthy habits year-round
Healthy families start with healthy habits: best practices for every age
Arizona Center for Cancer Care (AZCCC) provides recommendations to help families across the state adopt consistent, preventative health habits that support long-term wellness. From routine screenings to everyday lifestyle choices, AZCCC physicians emphasize that proactive care remains one of the strongest defenses against serious illness.
“Healthy families are built on consistent, everyday choices,” said Dr. Noemi Sigalove, breast surgeon at AZCCC and HonorHealth. “When individuals follow recommended screenings, make time for physical activity, and pay attention to changes in their bodies, we dramatically increase the likelihood of catching disease early—and improving outcomes.”
Preventative Screenings by Age Group
AZCCC provides recommendations for screening as part of comprehensive guidance for early detection of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. These include:
Children & Adolescents
- Routine pediatric checkups and developmental screenings
- Vision and hearing tests
- Monitoring of the childhood vaccination schedule
Adults 18–39
- Blood pressure checks every 3–5 years
- Cholesterol screening for those at risk
- Cervical cancer screening beginning at age 21
- Skin checks for new or changing moles that can detect skin cancer
Adults 40–64
- Annual blood pressure and cholesterol tests
- Mammograms beginning at ages 40–45 based on risk can help detect breast cancer at an early stage
- Colon cancer screening starting at 45
- Diabetes screening for individuals with risk factors
- Prostate cancer discussions for men around age 50
Adults 65+
- Bone density testing
- Annual eye exams
- Continued cancer screenings as recommended
- Cognitive and fall-risk evaluations
Vaccinations Remain a Critical Part of Family Wellness
AZCCC recommends staying up to date on all vaccinations, including the annual flu shot, updated COVID-19 vaccines, shingles and pneumonia vaccines for older adults, and CDC-recommended childhood immunizations.
Lifestyle Habits That Support Long-Term Health
Regular physical activity and balanced nutrition play essential roles in maintaining a healthy weight, supporting immune function, and reducing long-term disease risk. Families are also advised to prioritize mental well-being by fostering open communication, allowing time for rest, and seeking professional support when needed.
"Lifestyle habits are one of the strongest influences on long-term health," said Dr. Ashley Albert, radiation oncologist at AZCCC. “Small, consistent choices—staying active, eating well, and managing stress—can lower cancer risk and support overall health. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about steady effort over time.”
Annual Medical Checkups and Symptom Awareness
AZCCC recommends annual medical checkups even when individuals feel healthy. These visits allow healthcare providers to evaluate key health markers, identify early symptoms, update vaccinations, and reinforce healthy habits. Persistent symptoms should always be evaluated promptly.
“Listening to your body is one of the most important steps you can take,” said Dr. Lipika McCauley, Urologist with a focus on Women's health at AZCCC and HonorHealth. “If something feels off or doesn’t go away, early evaluation can be lifesaving. We want patients to feel empowered to reach out at the first sign of concern.”
Patients who have questions about cancer symptoms or who wish to connect with a specialist can explore AZCCC’s physician directory at: https://www.arizonaccc.com/providers
A Commitment to Lifelong Wellness
With clear recommendations for preventative care, healthy lifestyle habits, and strong communication with medical providers, families can build a stronger foundation for long-term wellness. AZCCC remains dedicated to providing expert care, education, and resources to communities across Arizona.
About Arizona Center for Cancer Care
With more than 40 offices and 119 physicians across Maricopa County, Arizona Center for Cancer Care is an award-winning multi-specialty practice including medical oncology, gynecologic oncology, hematology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, urology, breast surgery, general surgery, dermatology, and imaging.
Founded in 2008 through the collaboration of leading physicians in oncology, Arizona Center for Cancer Care has built a regional reputation for excellence that is reflected in exceptional and compassionate patient care, driven by innovation, cutting-edge technologies, and advanced treatments including Brachytherapy and Radiosurgery. We utilize a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment and care, aways putting the patient first. For more information, visit Arizonaccc.com.
About HonorHealth
HonorHealth is one of Arizona’s largest nonprofit healthcare systems, serving a population of five million people in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. The comprehensive network encompasses nine acute-care hospitals, an extensive medical group with primary, specialty and urgent care services, a cancer care network, outpatient surgery centers, clinical research, medical education, a foundation, an accountable care organization, community services and more.
With more than 17,000 team members, 4,000+ affiliated providers and over 1,100 volunteers, HonorHealth seamlessly blends collaborative care and approachable expertise to improve health and well-being. People often say care feels different here -- because it does. Learn more at HonorHealth.com.
