Cancer Prevention Month

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

1. Stage 1 — Cancer arises in a particular tissue and forms small masses. Chances of survival are highest at this stage

2. Stage 2 — Tumours are found throughout the organ where cancer originates

3. Stage 3 — Cancer has invaded nearby lymph nodes

4. 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.