Preventing Cancer – 9 Things to Know
Here’s some timely advice from CANHOPE, the nonprofit cancer counselling and support service provided by Parkway Cancer Centre.
#1 Some viruses can cause cancer
It’s well known that smoking and sunburns increase cancer risk – but some viral infections can raise your risk, too. The human papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to cervical cancer, and the hepatitis B virus (HBV) to liver cancer. Vaccination against HPV and HBV reduces both of these risks.
#2 Sugar has a role
No evidence links sugar to cancer directly, but too much sugar in your diet can lead to obesity – which in turn increases your risk of developing cancer.
#3 Go easy on the alcohol
The less, the better! Alcohol has been linked to mouth, throat, oesophageal, liver, colorectal, breast and stomach cancers.
#4 Most cancers are not inherited
Only five to ten percent of cancer cases are linked to abnormal genes. Unhealthy diet, inactivity, viral infections and exposure to tobacco smoke play far greater roles.
#5 Forty percent of cancers are preventable
• Stay active • Eat more fruit and vegetables • Cut down on red meat and sugar, especially
sugary drinks • Cook your own food from fresh ingredients • Avoid processed, salted or smoked foods such as ham, bacon and sausages, especially those with added nitrates; they may contain carcinogenic compounds.
#6 Not all tumours are cancerous
Some are benign. Malignant tumours can invade surrounding tissue and spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system. Benign tumours do not spread, and once removed do not usually recur.
#7 Screening is essential
Cancers detected in the early stages, while still small, are easier to treat. What’s more, there’s a very good chance of a cure if the cancer has not spread.
#8 Look out for the warning signs
See a doctor if you have:
• Lumps in the breast or on other parts of the body • Hoarseness or a persistent cough unrelated to a viral illness
• Indigestion, or difficulty swallowing
• Unexpected or rapid, significant weight loss • Sores that do not heal
• Unusual bleeding or vaginal discharge, or blood in phlegm, urine or stool
• Chronic constipation or diarrhoea, or a change in the consistency or size of stool
• Changes in the colour, shape or size of a wart or mole
#9 Alternative therapies may complement your treatment
If you’re considering alternative therapies or medications, be sure to let your oncologist know, so he or she can ensure they do not affect the effectiveness of the ongoing treatment.