Cancer Prevention
7 Steps to Cancer Prevention
You can protect yourself against many diseases, including cancer, by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Take action to reduce your cancer risk with these simple 7-Steps!
1. Don’t Use Tobacco
Tobacco is linked to cancers of the lung, throat, mouth and esophagus. More than 80 percent of all lung cancer is related to smoking. And non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke are at increased risk for lung cancer and other respiratory problems. Don't smoke cigarettes, cigars or pipes or use smokeless tobacco. If you do use tobacco, quit now. Help to create smoke free public environments in your community.
2. Follow Cancer Screening Guidelines
There are many tests that can help detect cancer early when it's easy to treat -- and to detect abnormalities before they become cancer. Ask your health care professional which screening tests you should have and when. Find out if you are at higher risk for some cancers because of family history or your lifestyle. If you are, talk with your health care professional about earlier or more frequent screening or if there are other steps you can take to protect yourself.
3. Eat Less Fat and More Fruits and Vegetables
There is an increasing amount of evidence linking diet to cancer. Some research suggests that one-third of all cancers diagnosed every year may be related to what we eat. Reduce dietary fat intake, especially animal fat. Make your diet "plant-based" rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and whole grains.
4. Exercise Regularly
Add exercise to your life to reduce stress, control your weight and reduce your risk for some cancers, including colorectal and breast cancer. Even moderate exercise at least three days week can make a big difference in your health and well being.
5. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Always wear sunscreen of at least 15 SPF or more even on hazy days no matter your skin color. Overexposure to the sun is the cause of most skin cancers, including the most deadly type, melanoma. Most damage occurs in childhood and adolescence. Be certain to protect your children’s skin, as well.
6. Practice Safer Sex
Cervical cancer is linked to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Women with HPV – a sexually transmitted virus – are at an increased risk of getting cervical cancer. Beginning at age 18 or when they become sexually active, women begin regular pelvic exams and Pap tests to pre-cancerous or abnormal changes in the cervix. Always use a barrier method of contraception, such as a condom. While condoms can't protect against HPV, they do protect against other sexually transmitted diseases.
7. If You Drink Alcohol, Limit Consumption to a Moderate Level
Alcohol alone may play a role in 3 percent of cancer deaths. Alcohol and tobacco together can be a deadly combination. If you drink, limit your consumption to no more than two drinks a day.
