We all have felt the painful effects of cancer. One in eight deaths is caused by some form of cancer. According to the National Cancer Program, approximately 41% of Americans will find themselves at a medical center with a cancer diagnosis at some point in their life. Unfortunately, 21% of Americans will succumb to it.
While research and advancements from cancer specialists have greatly improved the statistics, the best cancer treatment is prevention. The following four cancer prevention tips come from experienced oncologists and highly rated cancer treatment medical centers:
- Stay Away From Tobacco
This might be one of the more obvious tips, but it is worth mentioning since tobacco use is one of the leading causes of cancer. Tobacco use has been linked to cancer of the respiratory system (such as the mouth, throat, and of course the lung cancer) and cancers of the digestive system (such as bladder, kidney, and pancreas cancer). Even if you are not a smoker, if you live with or are frequently around a smoker, your risk of developing lung cancer is increased by as much as 30%. Secondhand smoke has also been linked to nasal passage, sinus, and breast cancer.Don’t lose heart if you are a smoker. There are many methods that can assist you in quitting. After you smoke your last cigarette, your body will gradually repair itself. The greater amount of time that you put between yourself and your last cigarette, the lower your chances of cancer are.
- An Apple a Day Keeps the Cancer Away
Many studies have shown that eating a healthy diet reduces the risk of cancer. While even the healthiest diet will not eliminate the risk of cancer, many healthcare services recommend the following eating habits to lower your risk:- Eat lots of plants. Fruits and vegetables have antioxidants and phytochemicals that help your body resist cancer. In fact, berries, broccoli, and garlic have been scientifically proven to hold a direct link to cancer prevention.
- Avoid processed foods. Food that is laden with chemicals and preservatives have been linked to certain forms of cancer. Also, processed foods are a common culprit behind obesity, which is another cancer causer. Keep your food as close to the source, with as little processing as possible.
- Drink in moderation. Some say there are health benefits to having one glass of wine nightly. However, drinking excessively over a long period of time has been linked to cancers of colon, breast, kidneys, and lungs.
- Be Smart About Sun Exposure
Getting some sunlight is good for your mental clarity and is a great source of vitamin D. However, too much direct sunlight causes skin cancer, the most common and most preventable form of cancer. Avoid harsh direct sunlight without something screening it. Use sunglasses, sunblock, and clothing to protect your skin from from harmful UV rays. By all means, say “NO!” to tanning beds; that temporary tan can cost you a lifetime of pain. - Keep Up With Your Medical Care
Early detection of cancer gives you the best odds of becoming a cancer survivor. Follow the screening procedures on the schedule recommended for your age, ethnicity, gender. A specialist at your local medical center can give you the ideal time-frame for those screenings. You should also get in the habit of performing self-exams regularly.
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