When it comes to cancer prevention, the best thing you can do is to keep up with regular screenings. By doing so, you can spot cancer markers early before any symptom even arise. The next best thing is to evaluate your lifestyle. From keeping a healthy weight to ditching the cigarettes, your life choices play a big part in your cancer risks, so here’s how to reduce it:
1. Have a Healthy Lifestyle
Your diet, your physical activity level, and your recreational habits can an all increase your chances for certain cancers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), being overweight or obese can raise a person’s risk for certain cancers, including colorectal and breast. By staying active and eating a balanced diet, you can keep a healthy body weight and reduce your chance of cancer.
2. Quit Smoking
You may know that smoking increases your chances of lung cancer, but it actually increases your chances of all cancers. Even if you are a light smoker, only five cigarettes a day can put you at risk for a variety of health issues, so make today the day you ditch the pack.
3. Don’t Neglect Your Skin
Sunscreen is not just for beach days. As the most common cancer in the United States, proper skin protection is vital. Besides routinely using sunscreen and reapplying as needed, don’t forget the hat and sunglasses, too. Avoid tanning beds, and limit your sun exposure if you can.
4. Visit Your Doctor Regularly
There are several signs and early symptoms for many forms of cancers; that’s why regular well visits are a necessity. From getting a full body check for skin cancer to getting your pap smear, screening tests can find markers early before anything progresses.
5. Don’t Ignore The Symptoms
If you notice anything out of the normal such as weight loss, pain, or skin or bowel changes, don’t ignore it. These new symptoms can be your body’s way of signaling that something is off. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so discuss these new and unusual symptoms with your doctor so they can determine further testing.
From emergency services to wound care Dallas Medical Center can provide you with professional and expert medical services in your community. We work hard to deliver the treatment and attention you need to regain your health or prevent an illness or condition from becoming worse.