Many of us already know that cancer is a major health concern worldwide.  It is also the second leading cause of death in the United States.  It is of course not a diagnosis any of us want to receive.  Want to learn of things that you can do to prevent cancer?  

Eat A Nutrient-Rich Diet

Practice Good Nutrition By Including The Following:

• A variety of vegetables – dark green, red, and orange, fiber-rich legumes (beans and peas), and others
• Fruits, especially whole fruits in a variety of colors
• Whole grains

Try To Limit Or Avoid The Following:

• Red and processed meats
• Sugar-sweetened beverages
• Highly processed foods and refined grain products 
• Alcohol- for women no more than 1 drink per day or 2 drinks per day for men

Be Physically Active

• Adults are recommended to get 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity of physical activity a week.  Or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity of physical activity a week.  Achieving or exceeding the upper limit of 300 minutes of physical activity is ideal.
• Children and teens should get at least 1 hour of moderate or vigorous-intensity of physical activity each day.
• It is best to limit sedentary behavior such as sitting, lying down, watching TV, and/or other forms of screen-based entertainment.

Cancer Screenings

We know that you have heard it before, early detection can save lives.  It is important to do self-breast examinations.  Check your skin for signs of potential skin cancer. 

Here we will share some guidelines with you about screening recommendations. These recommendations from the American Cancer Society are for people at average risk for certain cancers.

Screening Recommendations – Age 25-39

Cervical cancer screening is recommended for people with a cervix beginning at age 25

Screening Recommendations – Ages 40-49

• Breast cancer screening is recommended beginning at age 45, with the option to begin at age 40.
• Cervical cancer screening is recommended for people with a cervix.
• Colorectal cancer screening is recommended for everyone beginning at age 45.
• At age 45, African Americans should discuss prostate cancer screening with a doctor.

Screening Recommendations – Ages 50 & up.

• Breast cancer screening is recommended.
• Cervical cancer screening is recommended.
• Colorectal cancer screening is recommended.
• People who currently smoke or formerly smoked should discuss lung cancer screening with a doctor.
• Discuss prostate cancer screening with a doctor.

It is important to talk to your doctor about your family’s medical history and your lifestyle behaviors past and present.  This way it can help identify if you have certain risk factors for cancer if any.  Here at OB-GYN Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch, we are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have in regard to your reproductive health.

February 4, is World Cancer Day.  Learn how you can help to create a future without cancer.