Cancer is among the dreaded diseases because of its impact on health, survival and the cost of treatment. It evokes emotions, fear, anger, inability to decide and the need to reach out to family member or loved one for support and encouragement. However, one can battle cancer and come out as winner when cancer is diagnosed early and with strong will power. There are many such examples, which you may be aware of as well.
4th February is observed as a National Cancer Day. Here are a few things you should know about cancer:
- Cancer is the culmination of many diseases put together. In layman’s terms, it is abnormal multiplication cancer cells and their spread locally and to other parts of the body. Cancer can occur in any part of the body.
- All cancers are not inherited genetically. Although, not completely understood, person’s food choices and surrounding environment may play an important role in cancer development.
- Smoking is the most important preventable cause of cancer. Majority of lung cancers (90%) are caused due to smoking and 22% of cancer deaths can be attributed to lung cancer. There is no organ in the body, which is not affected by smoking.
- Sleep is one of the underrated ways to maintain health and remain cancer free. Thus, good and sufficient sleep is very important.
- What you eat, matters a lot. There are specific foods which trigger impairment in healthy cells. Plant based foods like fruits, vegetables, etc. are good and meat is considered as bad with regards to cancer.
- The symptoms of cancer might get unnoticed until it has spread to other areas of the body. Thus, early screening is very important to detect cancers in their early stages.
Healthy choices can help to avoid cancer. A healthy diet, adequate rest, no tobacco use and limited alcohol intake will help us to lead a healthy and cancer-free life.
Developed by Scientific Angle brought to you by Health Meter Services
Disclaimer: Don’t follow any suggestions in this article without consulting a qualified doctor
References:
- Cancer: What you need to know https://www.emedicinehealth.com/cancer_what_you_need_to_know/article_em.htm#when_the_diagnosis_is_cancer
- 17 Cancer facts you need to know https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/17-cancer-facts-every-person-needs-know/