5 Ways to Be Proactive About Cancer Prevention

February is National Cancer Prevention Month. Let’s take this time reflect on the importance of taking proactive steps to reduce cancer risk and prioritize early detection. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle and using advanced diagnostic tools like PET-CT scans and mammography can significantly improve your chances of staying ahead of the disease.

Here are five ways to be proactive about cancer prevention:

1. Prioritize Regular Screenings: Routine cancer screenings are essential for early detection. For women, annual mammograms can identify breast cancer in its earliest stages, even before symptoms appear. PET-CT scans, another advanced diagnostic tool, combine metabolic and anatomical imaging to detect cancerous activity in the body, making them invaluable for early detection and monitoring. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the screenings appropriate for your age, family history, and risk factors.
2. Adopt a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help lower your cancer risk. Limit your consumption of processed foods, red meats, and sugary drinks, which have been linked to increased cancer risk. Incorporating foods with antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, can also help combat harmful free radicals in the body.
3. Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also reduces the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and endometrial cancers. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. Staying active also boosts your immune system, improving your body’s natural defenses.
4. Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol Consumption: Tobacco use is a leading cause of cancer, particularly lung, throat, and mouth cancers. Quitting smoking, or never starting, can significantly reduce your risk. Additionally, limit alcohol, as excessive drinking is linked to liver, breast, and colorectal cancers.
5. Know Your Family History: Understanding your family’s medical history can help identify genetic predispositions to certain cancers. If you have a family history of cancer, speak with your doctor about genetic counseling and consider additional screenings, such as PET-CT scans, to catch potential issues early.

By embracing these proactive strategies, you can take control of your health and reduce your cancer risk. During National Cancer Prevention Month, schedule important screenings, including mammography and PET-CT scans, to take every step possible toward early detection and prevention. Your health is worth it.