February 4: World Cancer Day

February 4, 2015 is World Cancer Day. Aimed at creating worldwide awareness on cancer and how early detection can help prevent and cure the disease, this day is dedicated to those affected by cancer and the survivors who won the battle against this deadly disease.

Cancer - facts :

• Cancer is characterised by abnormal growth of cells that form a tumor
• There are about 100 types of cancer
• Malignant tumors can grow and invade other parts of the body.
• Cancer can affect both adults and children
• Over 30% of cancers can be prevented by making lifestyle changes
• Prediabetes increases cancer risk by 15%.
• An estimated 5-10% of cancers are entirely hereditary. Most cancers develop through a combination of hereditary and environmental factors.
• Approximately 15% of all cancers worldwide are due to infections.
• Lung, prostate, and stomach cancers are the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men.
• Breast, cervix, and colorectal cancers are the most commonly diagnosed cancers in women.
• Eating a diet high in fat increases the risk for many types of cancer.

Keeping away cancer

• Exercise, like walking, can reduce breast cancer risk by 25%
• A sound sleep, more than six hours a night can reduce the risk of colon cancer, which is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women
• Breast-feeding may slightly reduce the risk of breast cancer.
• Vitamin C, an antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables, helps prevent the formation of cancer-causing nitrogen compounds.
• Green tea has epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and catechins, which retards cancer growth.
• Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, folate, vitamin C, and fiber, which help in reducing the risk of breast cancer.
• Garlic helps reduce the risk of developing cancer, especially in digestive organs such as the esophagus, stomach and colon.
• Regular self-exams and screenings for various types of cancers can increase the chances of discovering cancer early, when treatment is most likely to be successful.
• Avoid tobacco products

Remember, prevention is better than cure. And in the case of cancer, early detection.

If you have the slightest doubt that there is an unusual lump or growth or discomfort, consult a doctor immediately.