Cancer Prevention
Cancer is a class of disease which is characterized by uncontrolled growth and proliferation of cells. It deviates from the normal cycle of cells which is supposed to be growth, division and then death. Cancer precipitates from different factors, which are genetics, chemical or medical factors and life style. According to World Health Organization, Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide and is projected to continue rising to 12 million death in the year 2030. It affects people of all ages and of all classes.
Cancer is indeed a frightening and serious health condition. The good news is, there is about 30% of deaths from this disease that can be prevented. To be able to deal with its prevention, people should first be aware of what cancer really is along with its symptoms and causes.
Certain types of Cancer differ between men and women. However, there are several factors that can predispose to cancer formation. One of which are these external agents. External agents are classified into three categories which include Physical carcinogens- such as UV and radiation; Chemical carcinogens- these are chemicals from tobacco smoke, and chemical contaminants; and Biological carcinogens- these are infections from bacteria, viruses or parasites. Another factor that is taken into consideration is the ageing process, as people age cellular mechanisms slow and less effective. Major risks are also these diet factors and lifestyle.
Cancer, unlike any other disease, doesn't present symptoms at an early stage. Some defines it as a traitor disease because it presents its symptoms when it's in its advanced state. Symptoms differ from types of cancer. However, people should be aware of the most common signs of cancer. These common signs and symptoms is simplified into a mnemonic from the American Cancer Society - C.A.U.T.I.O.N. C- Change in bowel and bladder habits A- A sore that doesn't heal U-Unusual bleeding or discharge T- Thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere I- Indigestion or difficulty I swallowing O- Obvious change in a wart or mole N- Nagging cough or hoarseness.
Cancer treatment aims to cure, prolong and improve quality of life for patients. There is no tangible and no promise is cancer treatment. However, some cancers, when detected at an early stage, have a high cure rate. Major cancer treatments include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, often have sequences which are Chemotherapy-surgery-radiotherapy-chemotherapy or chemotherapy-surgery-chemotherapy, it depends on the extent of cancer and its stage.
Cancer prevention is the active measures to decrease the incidence of cancer. Upon reviewing the causes of symptoms, we can identify the factors that we can modify. Lifestyle being the most modifiable and can be a key to Cancer prevention. Alcohol consumption that is associated with oral and digestive tract cancer. Cigarette or Tobacco smoking is associated with lung cancer. Physical Inactivity, associated with colon and breast cancers. Diet or Obesity is associated with colon, breast, and endometrial cancers.
Prevention and lifestyle modification guidelines can be followed to live a healthy life and in the prevention of cancer. Summarized under the vast classes of cancers it would be helpful for us to: 1. Avoid tobacco in all forms including cigarettes and taking into consideration second hand smoke; 2. Eat healthy, increase your fiber intake by eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains while reducing the consumption of saturated fat and red meat; 3. Exercise regularly, don't be a couch potato and move you body; 4. Stay lean, remember that obesity or being overweight increase your risk to many types of cancer; 5. Limit you alcohol intake, studies shows that safe alcohol intake for men is 210ml/week, and 140ml/week for women, drinking in moderation is always recommended; 6. Avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation. Precautions should be observed especially for people whose work is exposed to radiation; 7. Avoid infections that contribute to cancer, including HIV and HPV, have yourself vaccinated; 8. Get enough vitamins especially vit. D, evidence shows that vitamin D may help lower the risk of prostate Cancer, colon cancer, and other malignancies. ;9. Increase your intake of foods with lycopene.; and 10. Always remember that prevention is better than cure.
"Knowledge about the causes of cancer, and interventions to prevent and manage the disease is extensive. Cancer can be reduced and controlled by implementing evidence-based strategies for cancer prevention, early detection of cancer and management of patients with cancer.", as stated by the World Health Organization. We can do something about cancer prevention. It is possible and achievable.
Protect yourselves when we can. Self discipline and awareness is the key. Neither being at risk nor having the disease itself is the only time to take action. At risk or not, with or without cancer, do something. Take action. Know the enemy and live healthy.
