While we can't control all our risks factors for cancer, we can influence our chances of developing cancer in many ways. Rates of cancer of the breast, lung, prostate, colon and rectum have all increased in the U.S. What can we do to reverse this trend?
* STOP SMOKING: More than 30 percent of the U.S. cancer deaths are due to smoking. Smoking causes cancer of the lung, throat, mouth, esophagus, and pancreas. Smoking may be related to bladder, kidney, stomach and liver cancer, as well. Passive smoking or secondhand smoke is responsible for thousands of lung cancer deaths yearly.
* CUT DOWN ON SATURATED FATS: Saturated fats (found in animal fats and in coconut oil) are associated with colon, rectal and prostate cancer.
* EAT FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: The antioxidants in these foods are believed to protect against cancers. Five servings of fruit, and five of vegetables daily is ideal.
* KEEP YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE DOWN: Excess alcohol intake has been related to head and neck, digestive tract, and liver cancer. Limit your intake to one or two alcoholic beverages daily.
* AVOID EXPOSURE TO THE SUN: Melanoma, a skin cancer believed to be related to childhood sunburn is on the rise. Basal cell and squamous cell cancers are increasing, too. Use sun screen and a hat whenever you are exposed to the sun.
* USE ON THE JOB PROTECTION: If you work around chemicals that can cause cancer, use the required protective devices such as gloves, protective clothing and respirators. Don't forget to follow instructions when applying chemicals at home or in the yard, as well.
* PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED VIRUSES: Human Papilloma Virus and Human Immunodeficiency Virus are both known to increase your risk of cervical and anal cancers. If you are not in a monogamous relationship with someone who is free of STDs, use barrier methods each and every time you are sexually active.

By taking these steps you will not only decrease your chances of cancer, but of other chronic diseases, as well. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Take care of yourself and those you love.

To learn more about cancer, call the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345 or the National Cancer Institute at (800) 4-CANCER.

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