Preventions of Cancer
- All types of tobacco use place you at high-risk for developing multiple types of cancer. Snuff, an inhaled form of chewing tobacco, is linked with cancer of the esophagus and mouth. Chewing tobacco is linked with throat, mouth, pancreatic and esophageal cancer. Smoking cigarettes is linked to cancer of the kidneys, lips, lungs, throat, bladder and cervix, just to name a few. If you use any of these products, it is in your best interest to eliminate them from your lifestyle. There are a plethora of support groups and medications to help you. If you do not use these products, you are still at an increased risk for developing lung cancer if you are exposed to someone who does use them.
- Changing your eating habits, even a little at a time, may help reduce your risk of developing cancer. For example, diets high in fruits and vegetables have been linked to a reduced risk of developing stomach and colon cancer. Eating foods from plant sources that are high in fiber, such as whole grains and beans may also help. Reducing your fat intake, especially if it comes from an animal source such as high-fat meats, can decrease your risk of obesity, resulting in a decreased risk of developing cancer. Finally, limit or completely eliminate your alcohol consumption. It may increase your risk of developing liver, kidney, breast and throat cancers. Your risk increases depending on the length of time you have been drinking on a regular basis and how much alcohol you consume.
- Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, however it remains one of the most common types of cancer. You only need to take certain precautions when in the sun and you may almost be able to eliminate your risk of developing this cancer completely. The sun's UV rays are the strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you are outside during these hours, try to sit in the shade. If this is not possible, be sure you have covered any exposed areas with light-colored clothing that doesn't attract the sun's rays. If you do not feel comfortable being completely covered, use a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15.
- Some cancers are linked to certain viral infections which can be prevented with immunizations. One such infection is Hepatitis B, which increases your risk of developing liver cancer. In the United States, the vaccination is recommended for all babies. Some adults, such as health care workers who may be at high-risk of exposure, should also receive the three-shot series. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV), is another infection for which there is a vaccination. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease that can cause cervical cancer. There are two types of HPV which can cause cancer. A vaccine exists for both. However the vaccination is only for girls ages 11 and 12, and girls and women between the ages of 13 and 26 who did not receive the entire vaccination series.
- Sometimes the best prevention is early detection. This is accomplished with regular check-ups and exams. You can also perform self-exams: Women can perform breast-self exams to check for any lumps in or near the breast, while men can check their testes for any unusual lumps or changes. Everyone should be on a constant vigil for unusual changes in their skin and call your doctor if any are found. Men should have their prostate checked on a regular basis, while women should go for yearly exams to have a cervical exam performed. Colonoscopies are another exam both sexes can have performed on an out-patient basis.