Steps You Can Take To Prevent Cancer

It’s a sad truth that cancer kills over ½ million people in the United States for the last several years. Cancer is the second cause of death, exceeded only by heart diseases. (See article on protecting your heart).
Lung cancer is the most common fatal cancer in men (31%), followed by prostate (9%), and colon & rectum (9%). Lung cancer is the most common cause for women. In women, lung (26%), breast (15%), and colon & rectum (10%) are the leading sites of cancer death.

Cancer deaths are higher for men in every racial and ethnic group. African Americans have the highest rates of cancer mortality for both men and women. Asian American and Pacific Islander men and women have the lowest cancer. Cancer death rates are higher for African Americans than whites for numerous types of cancers. Death rates for myeloma and cancers of the prostate, larynx, stomach, oral cavity, esophagus, liver, small intestine, colon and rectum, lung and bronchus, and pancreas are all higher in African-American men than in white men.

Cancer death rates are higher in African American women than white women for numerous types of cancer, including myeloma and cancers of the stomach, cervix, esophagus, larynx, uterus, small intestine, pancreas, colon & rectum, liver, breast, urinary bladder, gallbladder, and oral cavity.

Although, cancer death rates are higher in African-American men than white men and in African-American women than white women, cancer death rate is declining faster in African-American men than white men.

So what can you do to prevent cancer? Well at a quick glance, most cancers can be prevented by the following:

Do not smoke and avoid smoky environments.
Do not drink alcohol or only drink in moderation if you have to.
Have good nutrition habits:

Eat vegetables and fruits daily.
Starchy foods and protein should account for 40 to 60 percent of your daily energy.
Eat less red meat, less than 3 oz. daily.
Eat foods low in fat and oils

Maintain a healthy weight (See article to determine your healthy weight)
Avoid excessive radiation including too much sun, radon gas and X-rays. If in the sun use high SPF 15+ sun lotions.
Limit exposure to know carcinogens: asbestos, certain chemicals, and industrial agents.
Regular aerobic exercise. At least 3 times per week for at least 30 minutes.
Periodic exams which include annual PAP test, monthly breast self-exam, mammograms, bowel exams. (See article on your body's Preventative Maintenance Schedule)
Know the cancer warning signs: