Centuries ago, when the correlation between chimney sweeps, chronic exposure to soot and smoke, and the occurrence of scrotal cancer were made, drastic changes were adopted to protect the young children and men employed in that occupation. Cancer rates dropped dramatically. Yet here we are, still smoking -- decades after smoking has been conclusively demonstrated to jeopardize our health and contribute to cancers, emphysema, asthma and prenatal damage.
Researchers will continue to discover other causes of cancer. Physicians will continue to develop more effective methods of cancer treatment. They and others will strive to determine the best preventive actions to fight cancer. Yet, we are ultimately responsible to act on their advice for ourselves and our loved ones.
Cancer survival rates are improving significantly, but there is still much to be done to increase the survivability of cancer. How can we continue to increase the ranks of survivors and to prevent the occurrence of cancer and other life-threatening diseases?
• Prevent. Smoking, obesity and inactivity are linked to a number of cancers. These behaviors can be changed. Prevention involves active participation. It is up to each of us to act on these warnings and to follow the recommendations to avoid preventable cancers. If watching a loved one suffer through surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation does not cause family and friends to stop smoking, how can a warning label on a pack of cigarettes be effective?
• Detect. Yearly visits to your physician are important. Preventive testing such as mammograms, pap tests, prostate exams and colonoscopies do detect cancers and pre-cancers. A short period of discomfort or embarrassment is nothing compared to the physical and emotional pain cancer can bring to you and your loved ones.
• Protect. Cancer survivors are at greater risk for reoccurrence of cancer and the development of secondary cancers. Doctors, nurses, therapists and social workers can address more than the physical aspects of follow-up care; they can also help with the “AC” (after cure) emotional, financial, social and spiritual concerns survivors and loved ones face.
What are you going to do today to fight against cancer and other chronic life-threatening diseases?
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