Cancer Prevention & Early Detection
1. Cancer Prevention: Lifestyle Choices Matter
You can reduce your cancer risk by making healthy decisions in everyday life. While not all cancers are preventable, up to 40% of cancer cases
are linked to lifestyle factors.
Healthy Habits for Prevention
Avoid Tobacco: The leading preventable cause of cancer (especially lung, mouth, throat, and bladder).
Eat a Healthy Diet:
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limit processed meats and red meats.
Reduce sugar and salt intake.
Stay Physically Active:
Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Limit Alcohol: Drink in moderation, if at all.
Sun Safety:
Use sunscreen SPF 30+.
Wear protective clothing.
Avoid tanning beds.
2. Avoid Carcinogens and Risk Factors
Get Vaccinated:
HPV vaccine to prevent cervical, anal, and throat cancers.
Hepatitis B vaccine to reduce liver cancer risk.
Minimize Exposure to Harmful Substances: Radon, asbestos, industrial chemicals, and secondhand smoke.
Practice Safe Sex: Reduces HPV and HIV transmission.
Avoid Unnecessary Radiation Exposure: Only undergo imaging tests when necessary.
3. Early Detection Saves Lives
Finding cancer early, before it spreads, greatly improves the chance of successful treatment.
| Cancer Type |
Recommended Screening |
Age to Begin |
| Breast Cancer | Mammogram | Age 40–50+ (every 1–2 years) |
| Cervical Cancer | Pap test / HPV test | Age 21–65 (every 3–5 years) |
| Colorectal Cancer | Colonoscopy / stool test | Age 45+ |
| Prostate Cancer | PSA blood test | Age 50+ (or 45+ if high-risk) |
| Lung Cancer | Low-dose CT scan | Age 50–80 (for smokers/ex-smokers) |
| Skin Cancer | Regular skin checks | All ages, especially high-risk groups |
Talk to your doctor about screening if you have a family history of cancer or other risk factors.
4. Know the Warning Signs
A lump or thickening in the body
Unusual bleeding or discharge
Persistent cough or hoarseness
Changes in mole or skin
Difficulty swallowing
Change in bowel/bladder habits
Unexplained weight loss
