Cancer Prevention and Screening

In Anne Arundel County, cancer is the leading cause of death. Research has shown most cancers are related to lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, diet and lack of exercise.


Cancer is a disease that affects the lives of many people in Anne Arundel County. Cancer has been on the decline for several years in Anne Arundel County.

Every year, over 2,500 Anne Arundel County residents are diagnosed with cancer. Seven main cancers are targeted by the Maryland Department of Health because they have the most significant impact on incidence and mortality. There are strategies that exist for prevention and early detection of these cancers.

The Anne Arundel County Department of Health's Learn to Live program has lots of information on cancer prevention-including risk factors and tips for protecting yourself and your family. FREE cancer screening exams are available for eligible adult county residents.

Call our Learn to Live Line at 410-222-7979 for more information.

Cancer Prevention

You can reduce your risk of getting cancers in a variety of ways, including:

  • Maintain a healthy weight through healthy eating.
  • Limit alcohol.
  • Be physically active.
  • Avoid tobacco.
  • Protect your skin from the sun.
  • Get regular cancer screenings by your health care provider.

Key Terms (CDC)

  • Incidence: A measure of the frequency with which new cases of illness, injury or health condition occur among a population during a specified period.
  • Incidence rate: A measure of the frequency with which new cases of illness, injury or health condition occur, expressed explicitly per a time frame.
  • Mortality: Death.
  • Mortality rate: A measure of the frequency of occurrence of death in a defined population during a specified interval of time.
  • Morbidity: Disease.
  • Morbidity rate: A measure of the frequency of occurrence of disease in a defined population during a specified interval of time.

Additional Information