Piedmont Primary Care Physicians Play Crucial Role in Cancer Prevention

Regular visits with a primary care provider can identify risk factors and help patients take proactive steps toward long-term well-being.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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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.

Why it matters

Primary care is the front line of cancer prevention. When patients see their primary care doctor regularly, subtle changes can be spotted, cancers can be caught in earlier stages, and overall risk can be reduced through individualized prevention plans.

The details

PCPs help patients prevent cancer in several key ways: conducting recommended screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung and other cancers; evaluating genetic history, lifestyle behaviors and environmental exposures that may increase cancer risk; providing guidance on nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, alcohol use and vaccination; and coordinating referrals and next steps when additional testing or specialist care is needed.

  • February is National Cancer Prevention Month.

The players

Advija Ibrisimovic, M.D.

An internal medicine physician with Piedmont Care at Monroe Pavilion.

Piedmont

A healthcare system reminding communities about the importance of regular primary care visits for cancer prevention.

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What they’re saying

“Primary care is the front line of cancer prevention. 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.”

— Advija Ibrisimovic, M.D., Internal Medicine Physician, Piedmont Care at Monroe Pavilion

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

— Advija Ibrisimovic, M.D., Internal Medicine Physician, Piedmont Care at Monroe Pavilion

What’s next

Piedmont recommends annual checkups for all patients, even those who feel healthy. To learn more about cancer prevention and primary care services at Piedmont, visit piedmont.org.

The takeaway

Regular visits with a primary care provider can help identify cancer risk factors early and take proactive steps to reduce that risk, ultimately saving lives. In an era of increasing cancer rates, this preventive approach through primary care is crucial for community health.