World Cancer Day

February 4, 2020SparksHealth Information10

Cancer prevention is an essential component of the fight against cancer. Cancer prevention must be considered in the context of activities to prevent other chronic diseases, especially those with which cancer shares common risk factors, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases and alcohol dependence.

Common risk factors underlying all these conditions include:

*tobacco use

*alcohol use

*dietary factors including low fruit and vegetable intake

*physical inactivity

*overweight and obesity.

Other important cancer risk factors include exposure to:

*physical carcinogens, such as ultraviolet (UV) and ionizing radiation

*chemical carcinogens, such as benzo(a)pyrene, formaldehyde and aflatoxins (food contaminants), and fibres such as asbestos

*biological carcinogens, such as infections by viruses, bacteria and parasites.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES 

*be physically active

*avoid alcohol use

* eat healthy food (increase intake of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains; decrease intake of saturated fat diet; limit intake of free sugars; limit salt consumption and ensure that salt is iodized; avoid intake of food and drinks that are very hot in temperature; minimize exposure to aflatoxins or dioxins in food)

*avoid smoking

*avoid exposure to arsenic, radon and asbestos

*limit Ultraviolet (UV) exposure during extensive outdoor activities or use of sun beds (limit exposure to the midday sun; seek shade when necessary; use protective clothing and sunscreen)

* get vaccinated againt Hepatitis B virus (HBV). *Ensure proper screening before vaccination. If already infected, get treated*

*stay away from indoor air pollution from domestic coal fires

*get vaccinated against Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Ensure consistent and correct condom use.*Get regular HPV screening tests (only for women). If already infected, get proper treatment*

CANCER KILLS! FIGHT AGAINST IT!