National Cancer Prevention Month
February is National Cancer Prevention Month, and to start things off, there is no guarantee that one can avoid a cluster of cancer cells forming in the body. ImageCare Centers offer cancer imaging services to diagnose and treat cancers. There are plenty of foods, activities, environmental, and genetic causes for cancer.
Preventative Measures Against Cancer
Some of the preventative measures you can take to avoid cancer developing in and on your body can range from:
Eliminating or lessening your red meat intake
Red meats, including lamb, beef, and pork are classified as Group 2A carcinogens, linking the intake of these meats to cancer. Most often, red meats are linked to colorectal cancer.
Quitting cigarettes
Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemicals that are directly linked to cancer. The most common type of cancer that forms as a direct result of cigarettes is lung cancer. However, cigarettes can cause a range of cancers to develop throughout the body, including the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, and pancreas, among others.
Less grilling
Grilling meats, fish, and even vegetables with extremely high heat can lead to charring which forms potential carcinogens. This process of cooking food creates heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons which are considered cancer-causing chemicals.
Less time spent in polluted areas
Some exposure to pollutants is inevitable, however, if possible, avoiding polluted areas can be extremely beneficial to your health. A simple Google search can let you know if the air in your city or general vicinity is unhealthy or not. When the air outside is polluted, ensure your inside air is clean and healthy to breathe in.
Wearing high SPF sunscreen
Sunscreen is a photoprotective topical lotion (or spray) that absorbs or reflects some of the harmful ultraviolet sun rays, with its main purpose being a preventative measure against skin cancer. Check the ingredients of your sunscreen brand to ensure there is no vitamin A additive, which can prevent aging, but aid in the growth of skin cancers.
ImageCare is Here to Help
At ImageCare, we offer several different types of scans for cancer, including CT scans, mammography, MRIs, PET scans, ultrasounds, X-ray, and fluoroscopy. Count on our services to diagnose and treat a wide variety of cancers. Trust the caring and experienced team at ImageCare Centers for professional oncological services. Visit us online to schedule your appointment.