Speak-Up against Cancer are on a mission to to get us all talking about the ‘C’ word to ensure that we are well educated on the warning signs and are accessing services at the first sign of concern. Early diagnosis makes such a difference. But so too does our lifestyle. Having a healthy lifestyle can really reduce our chances of getting cancer.
Smoking increases the risk of cancer of the lips, mouth, tongue, throat, stomach and more. What’s more there is no safe level of use, cigarettes contain over 60 cancer causing chemicals, passive smoking causes disease, and smoking and alcohol combined increases cancer risk.
Alcohol increases the risk of many cancers and is associated with cancer of the mouth, throat, food-pipe, great, liver and bowel. Guidelines for both men and women are that you are safest not to regularly drink more than 14 units per week. If you do drink as much as 14 units per week it’s best to spread this evening over three days of more. If you wish to cut down the amount you’re drinking it is good to have several drink-free days per week.
Poor diet is linked to a third of cancers. A diet that is high in fibre, fruit and veg and low in red and pressed meat, salt and saturated fat really will help reduce your risk of developing cancer as well as helping you stay a healthy weight. A combination of a healthy diet with exercise is the best way to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Keeping to a healthy weight will also reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Being sun safe is important too. Most skin cancers are caused by sunburn or long-term exposure to the sun. Be careful not to burn; wear a hot loose cotton clothing and sun glasses in the sunshine; take special care of babies and young children; stay out of the direct sun between 11am-3pm; use sunscreens with a factor of 30 or higher; do not use sun beds.
For help, advice and support with all these areas you can call the health trainers on 01273 296877, or make an appointment to see your GP. Alternatively call the Speak-Up office on 01273 878261 and they will help signpost you.