Cancer Proofing Practices You Can Start Today

By Crystal Pernell, BlackDoctor.org

The UV rays in the sun help to activate the Vitamin D in the skin. Vitamin D can help prevent the on-set of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, breast cancer and colon cancer. Moderated sunshine can also help improve the survival rate of melanoma. Experts recommend about 10 to 15 minutes every few days in order to get the full Vitamin D benefits.

Losing weight can also help you reduce the likelihood of developing a cancer, particularly in African American women. Women who get rid of unnecessary body fat are more likely to produce additional female hormones. These hormones help prevent such cancers as breast cancer, endometrial and ovarian. Other cancers affected by weight include pancreatic and cervical cancer.

Make sure to get a colonoscopy regularly. Colon cancer is consistently one of the number one killers of African Americans each year. The earlier the disease is detected, the better your chances of having a full recovery. Though there are other tests the can assist in the detection of the disease, a colonoscopy is still the best to know for sure.

Whatever the procedure, choosing the right physician is the most important component of remaining cancer free. When dealing with cancer it is important to pick a doctor who has a proven track record. Ask them how long the have been practicing and how many patients they see a year who have the same symptoms or condition as you. The more familiar a doctor is with your condition, the more likely it is that they will know how to treat you. BlackDoctor.org has a free referral service for patients who want to visit an Black doctor.

If you are not sure what cancers you are at risk for, there are tests to project your risk factors. Talk to your physician. They will be able to either perform the tests or refer you to a practitioner who can.

You may also want to have your family history taken. Family history is the best way to approximate your potential to get the disease. By examining your family history, doctors are more able to predict whether you are likely to develop cancer yourself.

Remaining informed about the risks of cancer and how to prevent the disease is your best weapon in the war against cancer. If you are concerned about the risks of cancer, talk to you doctor as soon as possible.

This article is provided courtesy of BlackDoctor.org.