Are there ways to prevent cancer?
The risk of developing cancer can be reduced by:
- Not using tobacco products (tobacco use is associated with lung and oral cancers)
- Choosing foods with less fat and eating more vegetables, fruits and whole grains (obesity is associated with colon, breast, endometrial and possibly other cancers)
- Avoiding excessive alcohol drinking (excessive alcohol consumption is associated with increased risk of oral, esophageal, breast and other cancers)
- Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight (physical inactivity is associated with increased risk of colon, breast and possibly other cancers)
- Avoiding the harmful rays of the sun, using sunscreen and wearing clothes that protect the skin (overexposure to harmful rays is associated with skin cancer)
- Avoiding exposure to ionizing radiation and ultraviolet radiation, certain occupational and chemical exposures, and infectious agents
Although many risk factors can be avoided, some, such as inherited conditions, are unavoidable. However, it is helpful to be aware of them. People who have an increased likelihood of developing cancer can help protect themselves by avoiding risk factors whenever possible, and by getting regular checkups so that, if cancer develops, it’s likely to be found and treated early.
What are some of the common signs and symptoms of cancer?
Cancer can cause a variety of symptoms. However, it’s important to get regular screenings because sometimes there are no symptoms until later stages of cancer. Possible signs of cancer include the following:
- New thickening or lump in the breast or any other part of the body
- New mole or an obvious change in the appearance of an existing wart or mole
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- Nagging cough or hoarseness
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Persistent indigestion or difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained changes in weight
- Unusual bleeding or discharge
These symptoms aren’t always caused by cancer. They can be caused by infections, benign tumors or other problems. It’s important to see a health provider about any of these symptoms, or about other physical changes. Only a health provider can make a diagnosis. A person with these or other symptoms shouldn’t wait to feel pain because early cancer usually doesn’t cause pain.
Source: http://www.omhrc.gov/templates/browse.aspx?lvl=3&lvlid=19
Office of Minority Health, US Dept of Health & Human Services