Are These Risks Worth Taking?

Written by Holly Watson

Health

With September being prostate cancer awareness month and October doing the same for breast cancer, cancer prevention awareness is becoming increasingly important for this generation and the next. With cancer raking as the second highest cause of death in the U.S. for 2010 and, many are taking steps to stay healthy and avoid any and all types of cancer. While new methods of breast cancer treatment and treatments for other types of cancer are on the rise, helping to prevent the disease by eliminating certain risk factors is the best option.

1) Genetics

This is the one risk factor you can't control. Genetics are the deciding factor for everything in our lives including your chances of contracting types of cancer. Some types of cancer are more genetically dependent than others, with breast and colon cancers at the forefront. Additionally, if members of your immediate family have had cancer, there is a chance you're susceptible to the same or similar form.

2) Diet and Physical Activity

Another leading cause or deterrent of cancer, depending on your lifestyle, includes your daily diet and level of physical activity. Three of the best things you can do for your body, for overall health and cancer prevention, are to attain and maintain a healthy weight for your body type, exercise regularly and eat healthy foods. Many types of cancer are associated with obesity.

3) Tobacco and Alcohol

Smoking cigarettes, cigars or breathing in excessive secondhand smoke, causes one of the most preventable forms of death: lung cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cancer in both men and women and one of the hardest to treat. Smoking can also cause other cancers including but not limited to cancers of the throat, larynx, oral cavity and esophagus. Additionally, heavy alcohol use can result in the same types of cancers along with liver, breast, colon or rectal cancer. The risk of oral cancers increases with the use of both tobacco and alcohol. Limiting alcohol intake and eliminating tobacco significantly lower the risk for these forms of cancer.

4) UV Exposure

Skin is the largest organ of our bodies, though we many not think of it that way. It protects our body from germs, regulates our internal temperature and helps get rid of extra water or salt. Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer. Non-melanoma skin cancer is a less aggressive form and is easily cured when detected and treated early. This type of skin cancer accounts for most cases. However, melanoma is a more serious form of skin cancer and affects the cells that produce melanin. When caught early, this form is easily diagnosed and also treatable. Persons who spend a great deal of time in unprotected sunlight or with a fair complexion should limit their exposure and use strong sunblock.

5) Transplants

One of the most surprising causes of cancer includes transplants. Those who have had a kidney transplant, for instance, are known to have a higher risk of cancer, due to the drugs needed to avoid organ transplant rejection. However, other factors such as tobacco use and genetics are also a cause of cancer in conjunction with transplant patients. To lower your chances of cancer after a transplant, continue to lead a healthy, tobacco-free lifestyle.

Though cancer is a leading cause of death, many of its risk factors are easily eliminated. Leading a healthy lifestyle is the first step in preventing cancer. Make 2012 the year to take control. Routine check-ups with your doctor are one of the best ways for cancer prevention and early detection. Be responsible and stay on top of your health to ensure a long and happy life.

Holly Watson is an Indianapolis mother, wife and yoga enthusiast. She enjoys crafting, baking and is a firm believer in cancer awareness.You can find more health information on her website.