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Cancer can be prevented and treated more effectively if diagnosed early.
Here are 10 ways to reduce your cancer risk, courtesy of the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA):
- Your working and living conditions influence your health. This is why so much health advice centres around "healthy" and "balanced".
- Most companies in South Africa try to promote and protect the health of their employees. Make use of company initiatives, whether it's health awareness days and health education campaigns to learn more about how you can prevent cancer.
- Start and maintain a regular health routine. Walk, swim, hike... there are loads of options. A consistent healthy weight will assist in
lowering the risk for various types of cancer. - Buy healthy foods when doing the monthly grocery shop. Good, nutritious foods can do a lot to combat illnesses.
- Skin cancer is the most common cancer caused by harmful UV rays of the sun, but is also a cancer that is most preventable. When
out in the sun or exposed, be sure to protect your skin. - Tobacco-related diseases kill millions of people worldwide annually. Do you really need more reason to quit?
- Hepatitis B & C viruses, as well the human papillomavirus cause up to 20% of cancers in Africa. Getting vaccinated against these viruses, and those that can cause cancer, can help prevent the onset of cancer.
- Regular medical care and self-examinations make a big difference. Check yourself routinely and go for the various screening tests when necessary. This gives you a chance to find the cancer early and treat it early.
- Avoid risky behaviours that can lead to infections which, in turn, might increase the risk for cancer.
- Practise safe sex, limit the number of sexual partners and use a condom when having sex. The more sexual partners, the more likely you
are to contract a sexually transmitted infection. People who have HIV/Aids have a higher risk for cancer of the anus, liver and lung. HPV is most often associated with cervical cancer, but it might also increase the risk for cancer of the anus, penis, throat, vulva and vagina.
