Being Aware of, and Preventing Cancer
Do you know that cancer is the second leading of cause of death in Arkansas and in the country; do you know that 6,210 people died of cancer in Arkansas in 2005; do you know that Arkansas ranks 11^th highest in overall deaths due to cancer; do you know that one in three persons will develop cancer in their life time; Do you know that April is cancer awareness and prevention month?
What is cancer? Cancer is not a single, but a group of more than 200 different diseases. Cancer can be generally described as an uncontrolled growth or spread of abnormal cells in the body. All organisms are composed of one or more cells which normally divide to produce more cells only when the body needs them. When these cells continue multiplying when the body doesn't need them, this can result in a mass or uncontrolled growth, also called a tumor. Tumors can either be benign or malignant. Benign tumors are considered non-cancerous and malignant tumors which can spread to other parts of the body are cancerous.
What can increase ones chance of getting cancer? These are called risk factors, are different with each type of cancer, and here are some: 1) Genetics or family history; some cancers for example breast and colon cancers run in families; 2) Lifestyle such as cigarette smoking, heavy drinking, eating foods that have excess calories, high fat, and low fiber; promiscuous sexual behavior and excess exposure to sunlight; 3) Tobacco-use: Thirty percent of all cancers are attributed to smoking or chewing tobacco. Cigarette smoking is also associated with cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, pancreas, kidney, and bladder; 4) Diet: Researchers have discovered that different types of foods consumed affect the risk of developing cancer, and that about 30% of cancers are related to diet. 5). Infectious Agents: Some viruses can transform normal cells into cancer cells; example: the human papilloma virus (HPV) can lead to cervical cancer; 6). Occupational Exposure: High risk occupations such working in uranium mines, asbestos factory, certain chemical and nuclear plants; 7). Reproductive Factors: Example, the risk of developing breast cancer increases if a woman does not have children before the age of 30. Sexually transmitted diseases also increase the risk of cervical cancer; 8). Sedentary Lifestyle or not moving around during the day may increase the risk of cancer. Your body’s own natural defenses work better when you exercise and maintain an ideal weight. Moderate exercise such as walking or climbing a flight of stairs can help; 9) Alcohol/Drugs contributes to the risk of developing cancer. People who drink too much or abuse drugs may not eat well or take care of themselves, which will increase their overall risk of cancer.
What are tips to Prevent cancer? 1) Reduce or avoid exposure to known or suspected carcinogens or cancer-promoting agents; 2) Do not smoke cigarettes; 3) Limit excessive exposure to sunlight; 4) Eat a balanced diet that includes vegetables, fresh fruit, whole grains, and adequate amounts of fiber; 5) Reduce the amount of fat and preservatives in the diet, including smoked and salt-cured meats; 6) participate in regular exercise; 7) Get adequate, consistent periods of rest (at least 6 to 8 hours per night); 8) Eliminate or reduce stress and learn to effectively cope with stress; 9) Get annual health check-ups from your health care provider; 10). Enjoy consistent periods of relaxation and leisure; 11) Learn to practice self-examination of the breast and testicles; 12) Seek medical care if cancer is suspected.
How do you know if you may have cancer? If you notice any of the following, see your doctor immediately for further examination. . Unusual bleeding or discharge; 2. A lump or thickening in the breast or otherwise; 3. A sore that does not heal; 4. Change in bowel or bladder habits; 5. Persistent hoarseness or cough; 6. Persistent indigestion or difficulty in swallowing; 7. Change in a wart or mole.
For questions or comments about this article, call Dr. Siewe at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences-AHEC South Arkansas in El Dorado at (870) 881 4429, or send an email to ysiewe@ahecsa.uams.edu. To read our articles on the web, go to: http://www.ahecsa.uams.edu/health.asp