Cancer Prevention

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While researchers have yet to find a cure for cancer, decades of extensive research have made great strides in both the treatment and prevention of the disease. In fact, it’s now believed that 70% of certain cancers can be prevented! One institution that has been instrumental in much of this research is the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Oncologist and president of the Fox Chase Cancer Center and the National Cancer Society, Dr. Robert C. Young, sat down with Suzanne to discuss the causes of specific cancers, and prevention tips that could save your life.

What Causes Cancer?

Genetics
Approximately 2 out of every 10 cancers are inherited. That said, it is very important that you recognize the early warning signs of the types of cancers that have been present in your family history. There are Cancer Risk Assessment programs available nationwide at some cancer centers and hospitals, which promote education and cancer screenings to those at a higher risk because of their genetics.

Environmental Causes
Dr. Young has broken down all of the carcinogens that can be found in the environment into percentages, the highest being the most probable to cause cancer. The two largest causes are smoking and diet, both at a 33% risk. Tobacco has always been one of the main causes of throat, mouth, and lung cancer. Many people believe that if they have been smoking or chewing tobacco their entire life, it is already to late. It is NEVER too late, and no matter what age you are, you are dramatically reducing your risk by kicking these habits.

People that consume foods that are high in fat are also at a higher risk. Eating a balanced diet and foods that contain anti-oxidants is very important, because they help to neutralize oxygen free radicals, the damaging atoms and chemical group produced by various diseases. Antioxidants can be found in supplement form, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and beta carotene. If taking pills isn’t for you, the very same vitamins can be found in a variety of foods. Vitamin C is present in most fruits and vegetables, but especially dark green, leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach. Foods rich in Vitamin E include nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. And finally, orange fruits and red, green, and orange vegetables contain beta-carotene.

In addition, heavy alcohol consumption has been known to contribute to 3% of cancer deaths. Drinking a lot of water, and limiting your alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks a day, has been known to aid in preventing certain cancers.

Lack of exercise, pollution, radiation exposure, food additives, and medical projects and procedures are individually, less than a 5% risk. Any type of exercise, no matter how minimal, can help. Even climbing two flights of steps a day can reduce you risk of colon cancer.

Occasionally you will hear of an entire community being diagnosed with cancer, or multiple people in the same office space. This is known as a cancer cluster, which means that there is a certain occupational exposure, or something in the environment in that area that is causing these people to develop the disease. One example of a cancer-causing agent is asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral fiber that can be used as an insulator or adhesive. Although it is rarely used today, it can highly increase your chances of lung cancer if its fibers are inhaled.

The Importance of Screening
Many people opt not to get a cancer screening for fear of what the results might be. Simply put, these tests can save your life, and should definitely be performed if you think you are exhibiting early warning signs of cancer. You can consult your gynecologist for a mammogram or Pap smear, which detects cervical cancer. A colonoscopy is used to diagnose colon cancer, and a routine visit to a dermatologist for a full-body screening is also a good idea for those “sun worshipers” who have a higher risk of develo