The authors of an European study assert that while screening may reduce cervical and colorectal cancer mortality, it's not so for breast cancer" [BMJ July 28, 2011]

About 40% of cancers could be prevented were people to stop smoking and overeating, limit alcohol intake, exercise regularly and get vaccines that target cancer-causing infections (e.g., HPV, Hepatitis B)

Survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer have a real risk for cardiovascular disease later in life--more congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, pericardial disease, and valvular abnormalities.

With 20 years' experience screening for breast and prostate cancer, since screening began, 1) these cancers seemed to be more prevalent.  2) Relatively speaking the cancers are presenting at an earlier stage.  3) The "incidence of regional cancers has not decreased at a commensurate rate."   

After heart disease, cancer is the second most expensive ailment in the U.S. And, if the emotional burden of a cancer diagnosis weren't enough, there's both an obvious and hidden (or indirect) financial cost, as well.