Cancer Prevention

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to take a moment and review Cancer Prevention. Men have a 1 in 2 chance of developing some sort of cancer in their lifetime; while women’s chances are 1 in 3. Not the best of odds.

The American Cancer Society has made great strides sponsoring cancer research and promoting health education. Here is what is in your hands; what you can do to help yourself and your loved ones.
DON’T SMOKE. Lung Cancer is the number 1 cause of cancer death in the United States.
EAT HEALTHY. Maintain a lifetime healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, include lots of fruits and vegetables…and water.
STAY ACTIVE. Engage in physical activity. Walk and exercise most days of the week.
PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM UV RADIATION. Avoid intentional tanning. Apply sunscreen regularly, year round, (SPF 15 or higher). Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. 3.5 million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancer are diagnosed every year. 75,000 people develop deadly melanoma skin cancer.

FIND CANCER EARLY. Learn what tests the American Cancer Society recommends, and when. Early detection is key, screening increases your chance for positive outcome.
This year more than 180,000 people will find out they have breast cancer, 43,900 will die from the disease. Early detection of Breast cancer minimizes the effect, and results in a 90% survival rate.
• Clinical breast exams, from your doctor; at least once every three years, age 20 – 39.
• Self exam monthly, noting any changes. Any lump found should be checked out by a professional.
• Regular Mammograms should begin at age 40, once every 2 years from age 40-49, annually thereafter.
Call 1-800-CANCER for more information.