Preventing Cancer – 9 Things to Know
Here’s some timely advice
from CanHOPE, the non-
profit 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.180 CITY GUIDE 2018
HAPPY & HEALTHY