Piedmont primary care physicians play crucial role in cancer prevention

Athens, Ga. (February 18, 2026) - February is National Cancer Prevention Month, and Piedmont is reminding communities that one of the most effective ways to reduce cancer risk is also one of the simplest: maintaining regular visits with a primary care physician (PCP). Routine visits with a PCP can identify risk factors before symptoms appear, helping patients take proactive steps toward long-term well‑being.

“Primary care is the front line of cancer prevention,” said Jon McGough, M.D., an internal medicine physician with Piedmont Physicians Athens Prince Avenue. “When patients see their primary care doctor regularly, we can spot subtle changes, catch cancers in earlier stages, and reduce overall risk through individualized prevention plans.”

PCPs help patients prevent cancer in several key ways:

• Screening and early detection: Primary care providers ensure that patients receive recommended screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung and other cancers. Many of these screenings detect precancerous conditions or early-stage disease, when treatment is most effective.
• Risk‑factor assessment: PCPs evaluate genetic history, lifestyle behaviors and environmental exposures that may increase a patient’s cancer risk.
• Preventive counseling: Physicians provide guidance on nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, alcohol use and vaccination — including HPV and hepatitis B vaccines, both proven to prevent cancer.
• Coordinated care: When additional testing or specialist care is needed, primary care physicians streamline referrals and help patients navigate next steps.

For many patients, the most important factor is simply maintaining a consistent relationship with a trusted provider.

“People often think they only need to see a doctor when something is wrong,” Dr. McGough said. “But some of the most serious cancers don’t show symptoms until they’re advanced. Regular primary care visits can literally save lives.”

Piedmont recommends annual checkups for all patients, even those who feel healthy.