Prevention and Detection

There is a lot of differing information out there about cancer prevention. However, it’s well accepted that your chances of developing cancer are affected by the lifestyle choices you make.

So, if you’re thinking about cancer prevention, there are some simple lifestyle changes that can make a big difference.

Get regular medical care and participate in standard screenings. 

Keeping up to date with standard screenings and regular medical care can help detect the early signs of cancer. There are some types of cancer that are inherited. Find out if genetic testing is right for you.

Eat a healthy diet including a variety of fruits and vegetables

Part of preventing cancer is eating a healthy diet. Research shows that vegetables and fruits protect against a range of cancers. They help keep the body healthy, strengthen the immune system and protect cells from damage that can lead to cancer. Our registered dieticians lead a nutrition course at the Cancer Center focusing on cancer prevention and reducing the side effects of anti-cancer treatment through optimal nutrition.

Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active

Obesity is associated with increased risks of cancers. Even a small amount of weight loss (about 2.2 lbs for an average adult) has health benefits for those who are overweight. Exercise has both physical and emotional benefits and is recommended to reduce cancer risk. Increase physical activity in your day-to-day activities, and gradually increase planned exercise to 30 minutes, three to five days per week. Your local gym is a great place to start.

Discontinue tobacco use

Five years after quitting smoking, the risks of cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and bladder are cut in half. Cervical cancer risk falls to that of a non-smoker. Ten years after quitting, the risk of lung cancer is about half of a person who is still smoking.  Visit QuitNow to start your quit for life.

Manage your Stress

The stress of daily life can often result in less than healthy lifestyle choices, such as alcohol and tobacco use, overeating, and poor sleep patterns. We will screen you for emotional and stress-related issues as a part of the Complete Cancer Care process and make appropriate referrals.

Visit Harbin Clinic Cancer Care for more information.