If you are a smoker, make the effort to quit. If you are not a smoker, don't start.Avoid exposure to...
- If you are a smoker, make the effort to quit. If you are not a smoker, don't start.
- Avoid exposure to other people's smoke.
- Know the seven warning signs of cancer and see your physician if you observe one of them.
- Don't overeat, drink too much alcohol or eat too many fatty foods. Instead, eat more whole grains, cereal, bread, pasta, fresh fruit and fresh or steamed vegetables – especially broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts. Keep your intake of lean meat, skinless poultry or fish to no more than 6 ounces per day.
- Exercise. A 30-minute walk each day is one of the simplest ways to incorporate exercise into your daily routine.
- Know your family's medical history and pay attention to a possibly inherited disposition toward certain cancers.
- Avoid getting a tan. If your skin will be exposed to the sun for more than 15 minutes, use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.
- If you are a woman over 20, examine your breasts for lumps or changes at least once a month. If you are a woman over 40, follow your physician's advice for mammograms.
- If you are a man or woman over 40, follow your physician's recommendations for digital rectal exams.
- Follow your employer's policies for limiting exposure to harmful chemicals in the workplace. Always wear protective equipment when indicated, know what to do if there is a spill or accidental exposure, and report any hazardous conditions to your supervisor or safety committee representative.
