Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. There are many types of cancer, including breast cancer, skin cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and lymphoma. Symptoms and treatment vary depending on the type.
Cancer symptoms and signs depend on the specific type and grade of cancer. Signs and symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, pain, skin changes, change in bowel or bladder function, unusual bleeding, persistent cough or voice change, fever, lumps, or tissue masses.
Cancer is getting more prevalent with every passing day. In yesteryears, cancer cases were rare and it was viewed as a disease for the old. These days, everybody knows somebody suffering from cancer and many more who have lost their lives. Children as young as 5 are suffering from cancer. Since we’re yet to unravel the causes of this disease, we’re all at risk. They’re no definite way of preventing cancer. We can only be careful not to expose ourselves to factors that increase the risk.
Here are some cancer prevention tips:
- Watch your Diet – We don’t have a certain type of diet that has proven to prevent cancer; but choosing the healthy options significantly reduces the risk factors. Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits with every meal, even as snacks. Base your diet mainly on foods from plant sources such as legumes, whole grains and nuts. Minimize your intake of calories, refined sugar and fat especially from animal sources. Processed meats should also be taken with moderation. Research has shown a link between a high intake of processed meats and an increase in the risk of cancer.
- Avoid Alcohol and Cigarettes – Drinking and smoking have been known to increase the risk of cancer significantly. Alcohol exposes you to cancer depending on how much, how regularly and how long you’ve been drinking. If you must have a drink, do so only once in a while. If you’re really committed to cancer prevention, consider doing away with tobacco in any form. Tobacco can cause cancer in any of the organs that it comes into contact with such as the mouth, thorax, larynx and lungs. Remember even secondhand smoke can put you at risk of lung cancer. You may not be smoking but if those around you do, you’re not safe either.
- Check your weight – Weight matters are essential in cancer prevention. One of the best ways to keep your weight down is to remain active. Research suggests that excess weight increases the chances of contracting cancer of the lungs, breast, colon among others. Even if your weight is in the safe limit, include exercise in your daily routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes. If you’re trying to lose weight, increase that to one hour. Include vigorous activity, the type that leave you sweaty and worn out.
- Information is Power – This is not about complex medical terms; but basic information that can aid you greatly in cancer prevention. Know what signs and symptoms to look out for. Have regular check-ups so that any abnormality is detected early. Limit your exposure to the sun and use sunscreen to protect against skin cancer. Get regular screening in case of breast or cervical cancer. Consult your doctor on the various types of cancer screening available.
Such simple preventive measures could be the thin line between a healthy you and a lifetime of battling with cancer.
More on Cancer: https://www.cancercenter.com/what-is-cancer/