Today is World Cancer Day
THE most effective weapon against cancer is knowledge.
If you consider that one-in-four individuals may be affected by the disease during their lifetime, you will realise how powerful knowledge is in terms of risk reduction, prevention and early detection.
The Cancer Association of South Africa prevention and early detection campaigns promote a balanced diet and balanced lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, not smoking, staying safe in the sun, doing regular self-examinations and undergoing regular medical checkups.
Research shows that up to 90% of cancers are caused by environmental factors. The war on cancer could be won if humans were no longer exposed to environmental carcinogens such as chemicals, viruses, bacteria, UV light and maintained a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and exercise.
Warning Signs: When to See a Doctor
Cancer can almost always be cured if it’s caught early, but all too often, people wait so long to see a doctor that the disease has spread to the point that it’s no longer curable.
If you notice any of the following warning signs, consult a doctor promptly.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Persistent low-grade fever. This is a temperature between 99.8 and 100.8 can also be caused by a wide range of infections.
- Worsening fatigue.
- A sore that doesn t heal or skin changes.
- Trouble swallowing or chronic hoarseness.
- White patches in your mouth.
- Blood in the toilet.
- Unexplained pain.
- A lump or thickening. Several types of cancer, including those of the breast, testicles, and lymph nodes can be felt through the skin. A lump or thickening can either be an early or late sign of cancer.
(Reference: https://health.yahoo.net)
Live a healthier lifestyle
* Don’t smoke, use any tobacco products, or breathe in second hand smoke
* Avoid smoke from open fires, ensure adequate ventilation
* Contaminated water: drink clean, fresh and safe water
* Hepatitis B virus: vaccinate babies
* Human papilloma virus: vaccinate children, women to have regular Pap smears
* UV A and B radiation: be SunSmart
* Obesity: regulate calorie intake, exercise regularly
* Diet: eat a balanced, mainly natural plant-based diet
* Asbestos: avoid exposure
* Cadmium ore from mining: avoid exposure
* Uranium ore from mining: avoid exposure
* Vehicle exhaust fumes: avoid breathing in fumes
For more information go to https://www.cansa.org.za/
