Cancer Prevention Month
February is the month of love — and also National Cancer Prevention Month. Cancer is a complex constellation of diseases that can happen in any part of the body. This entire month is dedicated to cancer prevention and raising awareness about the importance of cancer screening.
The Four Stages of Cancer Detection
Stage 1 — Cancer arises in a particular tissue and forms small masses. Chances of survival are highest at this stage
Stage 2 — Tumours are found throughout the organ where cancer originates
Stage 3 — Cancer has invaded nearby lymph nodes
Stage 4 — Cancer has invaded other organs or body tissues
Prevention Is the Best Strategy
Cancers are multifactorial diseases caused by a mix of genetic and environmental risk factors (lifestyle, diet, other illnesses). While we may not be able to change the DNA we have inherited, we do have the ability to take charge of and minimise the risks from environmental factors. According to the World Health Organization, 35–50% of cancers can be prevented.
Cancer-causing elements that top the lists are tobacco, alcohol, sedentary lifestyle, and environmental pollution. Understanding your risk puts you in the driver’s seat for actionable steps to proactively reduce existing risk factors and anticipate others you may be able to reduce in the future.
Know Your Cancer Risk — Before It Knows You
MapmyGenome offers genetic solutions that identify genetic risks for cancer, correlate risks with health history, and provide smart recommendations to monitor and mitigate genetic risks. Oncomap covers 15+ cancer types. Genomepatri screens for 20+ cancer types.
