National Cancer Prevention Month
All of us, in some way or another, have been affected by cancer. Cancer is sadly widespread whether you know someone who has been diagnosed, has a family history of it or has idols who were taken from it.
But did you know, according to the World Health Organization, 30%-50% of cancers can be prevented by avoiding risk factors and implementing evidence-based prevention strategies?
February is National Cancer Prevention Month, so we’re taking this opportunity to inform you of the health risks of cancer and preventative measures you can take against it.
Breaking it down
Cancer develops over time due to a multistage process in which normal cells transform into tumour cells. These cellular changes can occur because of genetic factors or external agents such as viruses, bacteria, asbestos, and ultraviolet radiation. Unfortunately, cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide.
The most common cancers are:
- Lung Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Colorectal Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Skin Cancer
- Stomach Cancer
Reduce your risk
Taking preventative measures to evade cancer can significantly benefit your health in the long run. Here are the Mayo Clinic’s 7 tips to reduce your risk of getting cancer:
- Don’t use tobacco
- Eat a healthy diet
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Be physically active
- Protect yourself from the sun
- Get vaccinated
- Get regular medical care
National Cancer Prevention Month reminds you to take a step back and evaluate your health goals. How many of these tips are already implemented in your life? How many of them are not? What are the ways you can improve your health and reduce your risk?
If you’re experiencing uncontrolled weight loss, extreme fatigue, or cancer symptoms, we urge you to visit your healthcare provider immediately. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment are the best defences against fighting cancer and recovering from it.
Show support
If you have a loved one who’s been diagnosed with cancer, there are many ways you can help by showing your support. Studies prove that people have better mental health during a crisis if they have a reliable support system.
Here are 5 ways to support someone who’s battling cancer:
- Be there Being there for your loved one is crucial to forming a solid support system. Sitting with them during treatment, bringing their family meals, and offering rides are great ways to show you’re there to make their lives more comfortable through this difficult time.
- ListenDiagnosis, treatment, and adjusting to a new reality can be emotionally tolling. Offering a shoulder to lean on and simply letting your loved one voice their feelings, frustrations, and worries can be helpful and healing.
- Educate yourself Research the type of cancer they’ve been diagnosed with to become more familiar with their situation. Utilize CancerCare and other reputable organizations that provide helpful insight into treatments, side effects, and related topics.
- Try to keep things regular. One thing you can do to help someone with cancer is to try to carry on with life the way it was before the diagnosis. Keep up with the traditions, routines, and things you enjoyed doing together as much as possible.
- Stay connected Cancer treatment can be an exceptionally lengthy process. The calls and check-ins can become few and far between as time goes on. Staying consistent and connected to someone through treatment is a meaningful way to support them.
Urolife Urology & Andrology Clinic is a single speciality clinic located at Vikrampuri Secunderabad, Hyderabad. We have not compromised on any aspects of patient care, be it the doctors, staff, technology, or infrastructure, and have ensured that we provide our patients with the best.
Dr Kalyan Kumar A . V takes a special interest in Cancer Prevention Dr Kalyan has extensive experience over the last 10 years in the minimally invasive procedure for kidney stones and has successfully treated thousands of patients, including some very complicated situations.
