What Can I do to Prevent Cancer?

			
			

				
				
You can’t prevent all cancers. Certain lifestyle changes, though, can help lower your chances of developing cancer and improve your overall health. According to the American Cancer Society, about one-third of the cancer deaths that will occur in 2006 – more than 180,000 people – will be caused by cancers that developed from poor nutrition, smoking, lack of exercise, and being overweight. These things are easy to change.
Here’s a list of changes that you can make in your life to help reduce your risk of getting cancer: 
  • Know your risk. Do you have any family members who have had or still have cancer? Many cancers, such as breast cancer, can run in families. Make sure you share your family history with your doctor. He or she may want you to go through extra screenings to catch cancer early.

  • Know your body. If you notice anything unusual about your health – like a lump somewhere on your body or a mole that is changing shape or color – tell your doctor about it. 

  • Quit smoking. According to the American Cancer Society, smoking causes up to one-third of all cancer deaths.

  • Get more exercise. Studies have shown that being overweight and inactive increases your risk for some cancers. You can help prevent cancers of the breast, colon, and pancreas by losing weight and exercising more. 

  • Wear sunscreen. Skin cancer is caused by too much exposure to the sun. You can protect yourself by wearing long sleeves, a hat, sunscreen, and lip balm (make sure they protect against UV rays!) when you are in the sun. 

  • Stick to a healthy diet. A diet high in fats is linked to many different types of cancers. You may also help prevent certain kinds of cancer by increasing the amount of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables you eat. 
Catching cancer early, through preventive health care screenings, is very important because it gives you the best chances for survival.

You may want to check with your provider to make sure you get the recommended cancer screenings for your age. These screenings may include: mammograms, prostate exams, skin care exams, and colonoscopies. 
Right now, Americans are not doing enough to catch cancer early. For example, fewer than half of Americans 50 or older have gotten one of the recommended screening tests for colon cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. 
Recently, scientists have discovered that viruses, which can sometimes be prevented by vaccines, cause certain cancers. Talk with your doctor about your risk for cancer and whether a vaccine is available and right for you. 
(Source: American Cancer Society)