How to prevent Cancer (in females) : Part 2

Preventive measures of Cancer for Women

Researches & studies determine  that in case of Head and Neck cancers, Prostatic , Cervical cancer and Breast cancer, i.e. The most common cancers  in India, there are proven screening methods to detect the disease at an early stage when it is curable. 

The problem is that the patient at this stage is totally asymptomatic  and will not in the normal course of affairs consult a doctor. Recognizing possible warning signs of cancer and taking prompt actions lead to early diagnosis. Increased   awareness of possible warning signs of cancer, among physicians, nurses and other health care providers as well   as among the general public, can have a great impact on the disease. Some early signs of cancer include lumps, sores that fail to heal, abnormal bleeding, persistent   indigestion, and chronic hoarseness. Early diagnosis is particularly relevant for cancers of the breast, cervix, mouth, larynx, colon and rectum, and skin. 

There are many ways   which women can follow to prevent cancer by simply changing some lifestyle habits. These can be easily adopted by every woman. These  are  -

1.       Avoid Smoking and Passive Smoke  -

World No Tobacco Day , 31 May is World No Tobacco Day. This year's theme is "Gender and tobacco with an emphasis on marketing  to  women". The tobacco industry targets women to replace up to half of current users of tobacco, who will die eventually  of a tobacco-related disease. 

We hear often & read in daily newspapers  that lots of times a day that how much harmful  cigarettes are for us and the risk of lung cancer they pose. Smoking is the most significant risk factor for cancer that we can reduce.

2.       Practice Safe Sex and Limit the Amount of Partners –

Always care for safe sex. Doing  unprotected   sex with many partners raises your risk for contracting a virus called the Human Papillomavirus, or HPV for short . Unprotected &  safe sex also inhibits the limits of partners with whom you are going to have sex. Certain strains of HPV have been   linked to several different types of cancers, mainly cervical cancer. It is estimated that almost 80% of women have HPV.

3.       Pap Smear test

Getting a regular Pap smear can detect changes in the cervix before they become cancerous. A regular Pap smear is one of the best  method  a woman has to prevent cervical  cancer.

4.       Must leave Alcohol habit -

Studies have determined that women who drink alcoholic beverages develop cancer at a higher rate. Studies show that  ladies who consume  more than 2 to 3 drinks daily have about 4  times more risk of women who don't consume alcohol.

5.       Physical exercise-  

Exercise helps to reduce the  risk for many types of cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends exercising 30 or more minutes, at least 5 days a week. Exercising doesn't mean to go to the gym to lift weights. Regular, adequate physical activity are major factors in the promotion and maintenance of good health  throughout the entire life course. Being physically active is essential for good health . Doing regular Yoga, Meditation etc.  also play a very important role to prevent cancer.

6.       Low-fat  concept -Limit fat:

 Eat lighter and leaner by choosing fewer high-fat foods, particularly those from animal sources. High-fat diets tend to be higher in calories and may increase the risk of overweight or obesity . Eating a diet low in animal fats has been shown to reduce the risk of many types of cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential.  There is a link between overweight and obesity to  many types of cancer such as esophagus, colorectum, breast, endometrium and kidney. Eating a diet high in fat  increases your risk for many types of cancer. But cutting out fat entirely isn’t the answer, either. 

In fact, some types of fat may actually protect against  cancer. The trick is to choose your fats wisely and eat them in moderation . Fats that increase cancer risk – The two most damaging fats are saturated fats and trans fats. Saturated fats are found mainly in animal products such as  red meat, whole milk dairy products, and eggs. Trans fats, also called partially hydrogenated oils, are created by adding hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils  to make them more solid and less likely to spoil—which is very good for food manufacturers, and very bad for you. Fats that decrease cancer risk – The best fats are unsaturated fats, which come from plant sources and are liquid at room temperature. Primary sources include Olive oil, Canola oil, nuts, and Avocados. Also focus on omega-3 fatty acids, which fight inflammation and support brain and heart health. Good sources include salmon, tuna, and flax seeds. 

Cook with olive oil instead of regular vegetable oil. Add nuts and seeds to cereal, salads, soups, or other dishes. Good choices include walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, hazelnuts, pecans, and sesame seeds. Limit fast food, fried foods, and packaged foods, which tend to be high in trans fats. This includes foods like potato chips, cookies, crackers,  French fries, and doughnuts.

7.       Be Sun Savvy

Using sunscreen properly and staying out of the sun during peak hours is essential to preventing skin cancer. If you are looking for a tan, try some tanning  alternatives like cosmetic Bronzers and self tanning creams. New formulas don't leave your skin looking orange.

8.       Family History of Cancer

Knowing your family history of cancer is very important to properly assess your risk factor for certain types of cancer. We know that cancers like Breast, Colon,  Ovarian, and possibly other types can be hereditary. If you know that a certain type of cancer runs in your family, let your doctor know. Together, you can determine a proper screening plan and assess your true risk. Genetic testing and counseling may be appropriate for some individuals.

For more details and consulting: 

"Do not hesitate, speak-up and don't wait"

Dr.P.P.Shrivastava

www.drpremwellness.com