National Cancer Prevention Month is a time to focus on ways to lessen your odds of developing cancer. DoctorsCare has some tips to follow, not just in February but every day moving forward. 

According to the National Cancer Institute, 1.9 million people are diagnosed with cancer every year, and nearly half of all cancer diagnoses can be linked to a preventable cause. What can you do to help prevent a cancer diagnosis?

Exercise

• Maintaining a regular exercise routine can reduce inflammation which keeps your weight under control and boosts your immune system.
• 30 minutes of aerobic exercise just 3 times a week and strength training 2-3 times a week are all you need to stay healthy.

Maintain a healthy weight

• If you’re overweight or obese, your body has more fat than other tissues, and fat cells can affect how your body regulates cancer cell growth.
• Extra weight can raise your insulin levels, and too much of it can increase cancer risk.
  • Maintain a healthy weight by
    • Eating mostly vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains.
    • Avoid highly processed foods such as chips, white bread, and packaged foods with artificial ingredients. 
    • Talk to your health care provider to help figure out a plan that works best for you and any other health conditions you may already have.

Quit smoking or never start

• Smoking cigarettes can impact essential functions within your body that can diminish its defense against cancer.
• There are thousands of chemicals in cigarette smoke known to be harmful toxins, most that can lead to cancer.
• If you have never smoked, it’s best that you don’t, but if you do, try and quit by finding a support system and what works best for you to kick that bad habit to the curb.

Limit your alcohol intake

• Alcohol causes your body to break down into acetaldehyde, a chemical that damages your DNA and prevents your body from repairing the damage.
• If you do drink, it’s best to drink in moderation, meaning no more than one drink a day for women and two a day for men.
• Some people try dry January, but why not cut out alcohol during National Cancer Prevention Month instead.

Know Your Resources

• Many resources teach you how to check yourself for cancer and what signs to look for.
• Talk to your health care provider if you have additional questions regarding your health.

At DoctorsCare, our providers are specifically trained in Urgent Care and Emergency Medicine. Visit one of our two conveniently located offices in Clarksville. We accept walk-in patients of all ages during all hours of operation. No appointment is necessary! Walk in, feel better!

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