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Cancer reaching for beer? Prevention of cancer in women: take care of your health from a young age For the prevention of cancer

Often we do not think about what is happening with our body, whether everything is in order, whether there are threats or prerequisites for the development of any disease, until the disease itself forces us to do so. Meanwhile, the occurrence of most ailments with proper and timely prevention can be prevented, thereby saving time, money and emotions. And maybe even save your own life.

Specialists-oncologists of the European Medical Center give great importance not only diagnostics and treatment of oncological diseases, but also their prevention. There are many simple and widely available ways to help maintain your health, improve your well-being and reduce your risk of developing this serious disease.

According to the World Health Organization, at least a third of all cancers can be prevented.

For the prevention of cancer and other diseases, there are universal medical recommendations:

avoid smoking or chewing tobacco;
eat a varied and healthy diet based on herbal products and low fat;
exercise regularly and maintain an optimal weight;
keep a sleep schedule;
limit exposure to sunlight.

These measures are included in the concept of a healthy lifestyle and can prevent the development of cancer.

Vitamins and exercise

The American Cancer Society estimates that 30% to 40% of cancers are directly related to diet.

Eating more vegetables, fruits, legumes, and processed foods whole grain helps prevent the development of cancer of the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system.

Pleasant dreams

A good night's sleep also contributes to improving the body's ability to fight cancer. In addition, lack of sleep can offset the positive effects of exercise.

Regular medical examination

To prevent the occurrence of certain types of cancer, such as cancer of the breast, colon and uterus, it is recommended to undergo systematic examinations:

mammography (examination of the mammary glands) - every year, starting from the age of 40;
colonoscopy (examination and assessment of the condition of the inner surface of the large intestine using a special probe) - every 5-10 years starting from the age of 50;
cytological examination of a smear (diagnosis of diseases of the cervix) - every 2-3 years, starting from the age of 21.

Poison smoke

While there is no “magic pill” for nicotine addiction, there are drugs that can help when combined with psychological self-management techniques.

Your assistants in the fight against cigarettes are nicotine replacement drugs:

patch;
chewing gum;
lozenges;
inhaler;
nasal spray;

Additionally, you can use distraction activities in those moments when you feel cravings for smoking - chewing "gum", brushing your teeth or using mouthwash after eating, when most smokers have a desire to smoke.

Prevention of skin cancer development

Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma(kinds of skin cancer) are the most common types of cancer. They are treatable and usually do not spread to other parts of the body. However, melanoma is a particularly dangerous type of skin cancer, which is often fatal.

There is no such thing as a "healthy tan". The appearance of a tan means that the skin produces more melanin pigment in response to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) light.

Although fair-skinned people are more prone to sunburn and other effects of sun damage, everyone, even naturally dark-skinned people, is at risk.

And yet, according to research, only 56% of people comply with protection measures from the negative effects of sunlight.

Here are the main ones:

Apply a protective agent. Choose broad-spectrum, water-resistant products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, apply 20-30 minutes before going outside.
Choose your clothes carefully. Dark-colored clothing is more protective than light-colored clothing; thick clothing is preferable to lightweight clothing. Wear a wide-brimmed hat.
Wear sunglasses. Protect your eyes from exposure sunlight using panoramic sunglasses that block 100% UVA and UVB rays.
Avoid sunny rush hour. The maximum activity of UV rays is set from 10 am to 4 pm. Sand, water and snow reflect UV rays, increasing their impact.
Refuse to visit the solarium. Tanning beds and sun lamps are not safe: UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply and contribute to the development of cancer.
Exercise self-control. Examine the skin for the appearance of new moles, freckles and formations, in case of changes and the appearance of neoplasms on the skin, contact a dermatologist.

Most cancers respond well to treatment if detected early.

Prevention of breast cancer

AT last years the popularity of pomegranate, which is a rich source of certain vitamins and antioxidants, has increased. It contains compounds that prevent the growth of breast cancer. These compounds work as blockers of the action of aromatase, an enzyme that plays leading role in the development of most types of breast cancer.

Specialists of the European Medical Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Breast Cancer give the following recommendations:

Avoid being overweight. Obesity increases the risk of developing breast cancer after menopause;
Eat healthy food. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and few sugary drinks, refined carbs, and high-fat foods.
Lead a physically active lifestyle. The preventive effect is achieved with moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes (for example, walking) five times a week.
Give up alcohol and cigarettes. The maximum allowable dose is one drink per day, regardless of the type of alcohol.
Beware of hormone replacement therapy. "Bioidentical hormones", as well as hormonal creams and gels, are just as unsafe as conventional hormonal products, so their use should also be avoided.
Breastfeed your baby for as long as possible. Women who breastfeed for at least a year have a lower rate of developing breast cancer in the future.

Prevention of lung cancer

Screening programs designed to detect lung cancer at an early stage in people at high risk of developing the disease represent the most effective way to prevent it.

The main target audience for lung cancer prevention are smokers and ex-smokers. They have the highest risk of lung cancer. These people can benefit most from early detection of cancer through screening and early chemoprophylaxis.

Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cancer is a complex process that requires the skill and experience of many specialists from different fields of medicine. But the effectiveness of treatment and its result largely depend on the patient himself, on his attitude to the disease, on the exact following of all the recommendations and prescriptions of the attending physician.

REGIONAL HEALTH CENTER

Cancer prevention

It is no secret that, despite the ever-increasing frequency of cancer, people know absolutely nothing about the causes, symptoms and mechanisms of development of this cruel disease.

What is cancer?

All malignant tumors are commonly referred to as cancers. However, cancer is a group of tumors that develop from epithelial tissue (mucous membranes, skin, glands). Malignant tumors originating from muscles, bones, cartilage, fatty tissue are called sarcomas. Therefore, if we talk about a malignant tumor, it is more correct to say "blastoma". Any malignant tumor has a number of specific features.

Risk factors:

1) Chronic stress, negative emotions, depression. The main stress hormone is cortisol, which can cause oncogene activation.

2) Smoking - according to WHO, smoking is a causative factor in 30% of all forms of malignant tumors in humans. Cancer develops in almost 90% of smokers. No less dangerous to health and passive smoking. It has been established that passive smokers absorb 2.3 mg of ash in 1 hour, being in a room with a smoker. Smoking increases the incidence of cancers of the larynx, pharynx, esophagus, bladder, and liver. Children of smoking fathers and mothers are 4 times more likely to get cancer. The risk of cancer of the esophagus, stomach, colon and rectum increases when you combine alcohol with smoking more than 10 cigarettes a day.

3) Drinking alcohol (especially without food) contributes to cancer of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, colon and rectum. Alcohol in large doses contributes to the occurrence of cirrhosis and liver cancer.

American scientists have found that even moderate consumption of beer can cause breast cancer in women.

4) Malnutrition accounts for 35% of all causes of malignant tumors. Excessive consumption of foods containing a large amount of saturated fatty acids (lard, fatty meat, brains, fat, highly concentrated milk, cream, butter), increase the risk of colon, breast, pancreas, prostate, ovarian, and rectal cancers. The mechanism of development of these cancers is as follows; in people who consume a large amount of fat, the intestinal microflora changes - the number of anaerobic bacteria (clostridia) increases. Excess bile, which is formed when eating fatty foods, serves as a substrate for the formation of hormones (estradiol, estrone, oxyestradiol) by clostridium, the excess of which causes cancer.

Scientists believe that limiting fat in the diet can slow down the development of the tumor process. Carcinogens that contribute to the occurrence of cancer include 3,4-benzopyrene, nitroso compounds, arsenic, asbestos, paraffin, aniline, heavy metals, polyvinylchloride, nitrogen mustards. Home-made smoking of meat and fish with the use of smoking liquids that form 3,4-benzopyrene is of great danger.

Repeatedly frying foods in the same fat is dangerous - long-term use of such fried foods contributes to cancer. Fast food kiosks now use plastic wrap. This film, when heated in microwave oven emits a terrible poison, which is a powerful carcinogen.

Vegetables and fruits contain nitro compounds, which are not dangerous in and of themselves. But at room temperature there is a reaction of formation of nitrosamines - carcinogens. At high and low temperatures, this reaction is difficult. Therefore, if you are preparing a vegetable soup, you need to quickly cool it and put it in the refrigerator, then the reaction stops. For the same reason, vegetables and fruits should be stored in the refrigerator.

5) Environmental pollution. Strong carcinogens are found in car exhaust gases. Swiss doctor Blumer found that out of 75 deaths from cancer, 72 are from residents living near the motorway.

6) Lack of vitamins enhances the action of carcinogens. Since carcinogens are mostly oxidants, and vitamins are antioxidants.

7) Increasing the calorie content of food and, as a result, obesity. In people with obesity, metabolic processes are slowed down, as a rule, the intestines do not work well - all this contributes to the oncological process. Scientists have long revealed that women with the triad: obesity + arterial hypertension + diabetes dramatically increases the risk of breast cancer.

8) Abortions - threaten future tumors not only to the first offspring, but also through the generation.

9) Sun exposure in high doses reduces the natural anti-cancer protection. In humans, excess sun increases the incidence of skin cancer and melanoma.

Prevention of malignant neoplasms

So, cancer prevention is a set of measures aimed at preventing the development of tumor diseases. These activities are carried out in the following areas.

Impact on a person's lifestyle includes smoking cessation, limiting the amount of alcohol consumed, rational nutrition, maintaining a normal body weight and combating obesity, regular physical exercise, competent family planning - the rejection of promiscuity, the rational use of contraceptives, the rejection of abortion as a method of contraception.

Nutrition. The concept of rational nutrition includes:

eating food at an optimal temperature that does not irritate or cause burns of the mucous membrane of the mouth, pharynx and esophagus;
regular 3-4 meals a day;
the correct ratio in the diet of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, sufficient fortification of food, sufficient, but not excessive caloric content of the diet;
exclusion from the diet of products containing hormones used in animal husbandry, growth promoters, antibiotics, as well as preservatives, dyes and other potentially carcinogenic substances;
limited consumption of fried and smoked foods, since when fried and smoked, substances with carcinogenic effects are formed in foods;
eating only fresh products, without signs of bacterial or fungal infection;
obligatory inclusion in the diet of vegetables and fruits - up to 5 items daily; preference should be given to citrus fruits, berries, green leafy vegetables, onions, garlic, legumes, green tea is also useful - due to their composition, these products not only stabilize the digestive system, but provide antioxidant protection necessary for the prevention of tumor diseases.

Rational nutrition helps to reduce the risk of developing all cancers, but the most favorable effect is on the risk of tumor lesions of the digestive system.

Alcohol. Refusal (restriction of the amount) of alcohol consumption is necessary due to the fact that ethyl alcohol has a direct damaging effect on the cells of the human body. In addition, alcoholic products contain a lot of toxic substances that are formed in the process of making drinks. By its ability to cause a tumor process, alcohol is equal to tobacco smoke. If a person who abuses alcohol smokes, the carcinogenic effect on the body doubles. Refusal to drink alcohol reduces the risk of developing tumors of the esophagus, stomach, liver.

Smoking. When smoking tobacco, a huge amount of combustion products and resins enter the body, which stimulate the tumor process. Smoking contributes to the development of cancer of the lips, lungs, larynx, stomach, esophagus and bladder. It says a lot about the fact that out of 10 people with lung cancer, nine are smokers.

Obesity. The presence of overweight or obesity most often indicates that a person does not eat properly and leads a sedentary lifestyle. Adipose tissue is actively involved in the metabolism of hormones, and therefore its excess leads to a change in the hormonal background, and, as a result, an increased risk of hormone-dependent tumors. Normalization of body weight and its maintenance at a normal level help prevent the development of cancer of the uterus, breast, ovaries, kidneys, esophagus, pancreas, gallbladder (in women), colon cancer (in men).

Hypodynamia. Active physical activity (fast walking, running, swimming, outdoor games, cycling, skating, skiing, etc.) for at least 30 minutes a day normalizes metabolism, body weight, improves mood, helps in the fight with stress, depression, improves blood circulation and normalizes the activity of the immune system. Adequate exercise can reduce the risk of developing colon, uterine, and breast cancers.

Opt out of abortion. Abortion causes irreparable harm to the entire body of a woman, primarily to the endocrine system, reproductive organs, and is also accompanied by severe mental trauma, which cannot but affect the activity of the immune system. Refusal of abortions reduces the risk of developing tumors of the uterus, mammary glands, ovaries, thyroid gland.

Competent contraception. Condom use helps prevent unwanted pregnancy, abortion prevention, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV infection, viral hepatitis B and C, human papillomavirus infection - diseases proven to be associated with a high risk of tumor pathology. In the presence of a large number of sexual partners, the condom protects the woman's body from a massive attack of foreign cells and proteins, thereby protecting her immune system from exhaustion. Due to the protective effect of the condom, the risk of developing liver cancer (through protection against hepatitis B and C viruses), cervical cancer (through the prevention of human papillomavirus infection) is reduced. Low-dose hormonal contraceptives also have an antitumor effect - they protect a woman's body from cancer of the uterus, ovaries, and rectum.

Fight stress, depression. There is a clear relationship between severe stressful situations, depression and the occurrence of tumor diseases. No matter how trite it may seem, a very important role in the prevention of tumors is played by optimism, the ability to cope with negatively colored emotional states. Some people in this matter require professional help in the form of a consultation with a psychotherapist or psychologist.

Careful handling of ultraviolet light. The sun's rays often become a factor that triggers the development of tumor diseases. Abuse of tanning, both on the beach and in the solarium, top-less sunbathing can cause the development of melanoma, skin cancer, breast and thyroid glands.

Household and living conditions. The desire to shorten the time and reduce the cost of construction or repair often leads to the use of non-environmentally friendly building materials, which include asbestos, slag, resins, formaldehyde, nitro compounds, etc., which, combined with violations of the technical requirements for ventilation equipment, leads to accumulation in the dwelling (primarily in the air) of harmful compounds. Acting as absolute carcinogens, these compounds stimulate the development of tumors in all organs and systems of the body.

Oncohygiene. This type of prevention of tumor diseases is to prevent contact of the body with the physical, chemical and biological carcinogens listed above. Personal oncology is based primarily on the knowledge of the existence of carcinogens and the common sense of a person, supporting the desire to avoid potentially dangerous contact.
Endocrinological prophylaxis. With this type of prevention, endocrinological disorders are identified and their subsequent medication (hormonal and non-hormonal medicines) and non-drug (normalization of nutrition, the fight against physical inactivity and obesity) correction in people of different ages.
Immunological prophylaxis. Identification and correction of immune disorders identified by means of an immunogram. This type of prevention of tumor diseases is performed by an immunologist after a thorough examination of the patient. Immunological prevention of tumor diseases can also include some types of vaccination (for example, vaccination against the human papillomavirus), which protect the body from potentially carcinogenic infections (in this case from cervical cancer).
Medical genetic prophylaxis. The principle of prevention is to identify individuals with a high risk of developing cancer (high incidence of tumor pathology among close relatives, exposure to highly dangerous carcinogens) followed by a thorough examination, dispensary observation and correction of existing cancer risk factors.
Clinical examination. Of great importance in preventing the development of tumor diseases is regular medical examination, especially shown to people over the age of 40 years. Annual fluorographic studies, examinations by specialists (by a gynecologist, surgeon, urologist, ENT doctor, ophthalmologist, neuropathologist), blood and urine tests can detect precancerous conditions and early stages of oncological diseases, thereby preventing the development of tumor pathology or increasing the chances of a complete cure.
Nutrition correction (adding dietary supplements to food that diversify and "strengthen" the diet). Since the exact cause of the development of most tumor diseases is still unknown, there are currently no specific prophylactic drugs that reliably protect the body from oncopathology. However, there are a number of drugs that increase the body's immune reactivity and reduce the activity of processes that transform healthy cells into malignant ones. These agents are primarily antioxidants.

Antioxidants are almost all vitamins, with the exception of vitamin D, which is an oxidant.

Fat-soluble vitamins: A, beta-carotene. E, P (omega-3 PUFAs) - work in a fatty environment - these are membrane antioxidants.

Water-soluble vitamins - vitamin C, B vitamins, bioflavonoids - work in the intercellular space.

Intracellular antioxidants - zinc, selenium, copper, manganese - are active centers of antioxidant intracellular enzymes that protect the genetic apparatus of the cell. Moreover, in nature, antioxidants are in a balanced ratio, and only with such a balance, they are able to fully perform their functions. For example, it is known that vitamin A without zinc is not active. Zinc is a part of the transport enzyme responsible for the absorption of vitamin A by the body.

Vitamin E is active only in combination with vitamins A, C, bioflavonoids and selenium. Moreover, synthetic vitamin E without these additional helpers in the body is oxidized, turning into a very toxic metabolite, itself a free radical.

Vitamin C has 7 naturally occurring isomers that provide powerful antioxidant protection. However, vitamin C itself (without helpers - bioflavonoids, vitamin E), turning into an intermediate product, can have a pro-oxidant effect.

Plants - antioxidants used for the purpose of cancer prevention:

Spinach improves vision (slows down muscle degeneration).

Broccoli- contains beta-carotene and vitamin C (neutralization of cancer cells), good prevention of cancer of the female genital area, colon, prostate, stomach.

oats- contains very rare antioxidants that help lower blood cholesterol, helps lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.

grape skin- contains a very large amount of bioflavonoids lowers cholesterol, strengthens the walls of blood vessels.

Nuts - activate the process of fighting cancer cells among themselves (especially walnuts).

Salmon, herring, mackerel- reduces thrombosis, blocks inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, prevents Alzheimer's disease (sclerogenic degeneration of the brain).

Garlic- lowers cholesterol, stops tumor growth.

Green tea- prevents the development of cancer of the blood, stomach, liver, skin.

Blueberry- helps with cardiovascular diseases, very relevant for people working at a computer (contains beta-carotene - prevention of eye diseases).

Final conclusion: scientists have determined that the right attitude to one's health, which implies the observance of elementary rules of prevention and regular medical examination, allows a person to reduce the risk of developing cancer by 90%. And this means that, with some effort, each of us is able to live a life without tumor diseases. Take care of your health!

Prevention of oncopathologies is not a myth, not a dream, but quite feasible rules. In an interview BBC News Sam Heggie, director of the World Cancer Research Foundation, said that each person can reduce their risk of developing cancer by 30-40% by making simple lifestyle changes:

including more fruits and vegetables in the diet;
regularly performing physical exercises;
controlling your own weight.

Proper nutrition can save lives. This is not an exaggeration. Prevention of cancer, which is one of the most common causes of premature death on our planet, involves a healthy diet, with the elimination or restriction of added sugar, saturated fats, hydrogenated oils, salt, refined flour, processed meat products, etc.

We propose to enrich the diet with healthy products.

The duration and quality of life depends on what lies on the plate!

This product enriches the diet with powerful antioxidants. These are polyphenols, which are called "catechins". The most valuable of these is epigallocatechin gallate. Numerous studies show that green tea can reduce the likelihood of malignant neoplasms of the lungs, stomach, prostate, breast, and colon.

Enjoy this drink in any form, including cold. Iced green tea is just as powerful an anti-cancer food as freshly brewed, hot tea.

Prevention advises not to mix tea with dairy products, as they can deprive it of benefits that are valuable to people's health.

Of all berries, blueberries contain the highest dose of anthocyanins, powerful phenolic antioxidant compounds that are effective in fighting cancer. It is they who give these fruits a rich, dark blue color.

Curiously, data obtained by American scientists in laboratory conditions, in vivo and in several clinical studies, indicate that blueberries and their active components serve to prevent cancer, both as a functional food and as dietary supplements. The antioxidant substances contained in this berry prevent carcinogenesis by triggering the processes of inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing oxidative stress, DNA damage, and stopping the proliferation of cancer cells.

With the help of a diet enriched with blueberries, you can not only reduce the likelihood of developing oncological pathologies. Eating just one cup of blueberries a week can cut your risk of diabetes by 23%.

Eat blueberries all year round, because both fresh and frozen berries are equally useful.

Broccoli contains sulforaphane. This natural compound, as shown by numerous scientific works, can protect against cancer and serves to prevent the recurrence of certain types of oncological pathologies.

Dark green vegetables such as broccoli and leafy greens are rich in vitamin K, which has anti-inflammatory effects. They also contain lutein. This pigment belongs to the group of oxygen-containing carotenoids. It is known for its healing properties. Prevention of macular degeneration of the retina includes the intake of this biologically active substance.

Eating dark green vegetables as part of a healthy diet every day (whether raw or steamed, boiled) can reduce the risk of acute heart disease by 23%, according to the Harvard University Health Workers Health Study.

modern science does not get tired of confirming the correctness of the old proverb: "One apple a day replaces a doctor." The popular, affordable fruit contains powerful antioxidants and phytonutrients that help suppress inflammation and the spread of cancer. English scientists back in 2004 found that polyphenols found in fruits, especially in apple peel, are effective against colorectal cancer.

In addition, this fruit has a lot of dietary fiber that can lower cholesterol levels. Another nice “bonus” is that a diet that contains apples is good for the waist. Studies show that if you eat an apple 15 minutes before a meal, the calorie intake during the subsequent meal will be reduced by 15%.

Choose domestic apples. Although they are not as beautiful as their foreign counterparts, the fruits grown by Russian producers do not undergo special treatment with chemicals. The latter increase the shelf life, simplify transportation, but may not be beneficial to human health.

Coffee is one of the recognized natural antioxidant products that people of all ages, nationalities, professions, around the globe adore. Studies show that drinking a cup or two of a fragrant drink daily can reduce the likelihood of developing such types of oncopathologies as malignant neoplasms of the breast, skin and liver.

English scientists back in 2011 concluded that natural coffee is effective in preventing brain glioma among adults, especially among the stronger sex.

Although the exact mechanism has not yet been unraveled by science, it is already known that caffeine inhibits the development of malignant cells by altering the cell cycle, DNA repair mechanisms, and carcinogenic metabolism. At the same time, it has a significant effect on the central nervous system, cerebral blood flow, and at the same time on brain carcinogenesis.

It is also known that caffeine contained in a natural product increases the rate of metabolic processes by 16%.

Avoid ready-made drinks with coffee. They often contain a lot of added sugar.

According to the WHO, almost a third of cancer cases are preventable. Therefore, one of the key health strategies is cancer prevention.

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Primary Cancer Prevention

This group of preventive measures includes measures aimed at changing lifestyle, changing diet, and eliminating risk factors for developing cancer. Let's take a closer look at each of the factors.

Proper nutrition as a form of cancer prevention

The risk of cancer is increased by:

Obesity. Tumors of the female reproductive system (mammary gland) are more common in overweight women. Therefore, the prevention of breast cancer begins with the normalization of weight.
Excessive consumption of fat especially heat treated. The total amount of fat eaten per day should not exceed 60 grams.
Eating unhealthy foods- smoked meats, fried foods. Abuse of them increases the risk of occurrence.
The use of sausages- in their manufacture, nitrites are used, used as a dye. Nitrites give foods a beautiful pink color, but they are also a weak carcinogen. No one forces you to give up sausages and sausages completely, but eating them exclusively can be dangerous to health.

To reduce the risk of developing cancer will help:

Vegetables and fruits- they contain large amounts of vitamins and microelements that contribute to the normal functioning of body cells and prevent their transformation into cancer cells.
Cellulose. This is an element of food that is not digested in the human body (contained in large quantities in vegetables, cereals, fruits). However, fiber has a huge impact on the digestive process and reduces the risk of colon cancer.

Lifestyle and bad habits - another method of cancer prevention

Tobacco smoking is the strongest preventable risk factor for lung cancer, as well as cancers of the larynx, lips, and tongue. In chronic smokers, the risk of cancer of another localization increases significantly: stomach, uterus, pancreas. The risk increases not only active smoking, but also passive - in the smoke exhaled by smokers, the content of carcinogens is only slightly less.

Absence physical activity leads to obesity, and its consequences are discussed above. Sports activities not only contribute to weight loss, but also increase the overall tone of the body and the tone of the immune system. The immune system fights cancerous cell transformation, so its condition is important in terms of cancer prevention.

Alcohol abuse leads to metabolic disorders in the body, reduces the overall resistance (resistance), which greatly increases the risk of oncology.

From the foregoing, it follows that quitting smoking, drinking alcohol, regular exercise is a comprehensive prevention of cancer. All of these methods can be folk methods cancer prevention, which are confirmed by scientific research.

Infectious disease prevention is an important step in cancer prevention

The relationship between the development of certain types of cancer and viral and bacterial diseases has been absolutely proven.

Examples might be:

hepatitis B and C viruses that increase the risk of liver cancer several times;
the presence of Helicobacter pylori (bacteria) in the stomach, which contributes to the occurrence of not only and, but also.
some strains leading to the development of cervical cancer.

Prevention measures for these types of cancer include vaccination against the relevant viruses and bacteria, as well as the rejection of unprotected sex (the main route of transmission of these infections is sexual) with new untested partners. Vaccination against hepatitis B is already included in the national vaccination schedule, and the vaccine can be vaccinated at will. You can get rid of Helicobacter pylori by completing a course of eradication therapy.

environmental factors

Environmental pollution as a result of human activities is one of the most important factors in the growth of the overall incidence of oncopathology. Preventive measures in this case should be aimed at reducing the degree of pollution. In the presence of strong foci of environmental pollution, only a change of residence will help reduce the likelihood of cancer - for this it is enough to move away from smoky factories and cars.

In rural areas, far from big cities, the frequency of skin cancer and other oncological diseases is approximately 1.5 times lower than in large industrial centers and megacities. This difference is especially noticeable when studying the age structure of oncological diseases - in cities, young people die more often from cancer.

Professional "hazards"

Working in hazardous working conditions, where a person is in daily contact with carcinogens, significantly increases the number of cancers. To eliminate this risk factor, a person needs to either change jobs or carefully observe safety precautions: wear protective clothing, respirators, pay great attention to hygiene - take a shower every day at the end of the working day.

ionizing radiation

Ionizing radiation also includes ultraviolet radiation.

In ordinary life, a person encounters X-ray exposure most often within the walls of medical institutions - when undergoing X-ray examinations. There is only one way to reduce the total dose of radiation, which is the main risk factor for oncology: to undergo only as directed by a doctor and, preferably, on low-dose devices.

Ultraviolet rays, acting on the skin, can cause basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. Therefore, in order to prevent cancer, it is desirable to be exposed to insolation (sun exposure) as little as possible, and it is also not recommended to visit solariums.

Note: to a greater extent, these wishes apply to people from risk groups - those who have had cases of similar cancers in the family, as well as people with fair skin that is sensitive to sunburn.

Secondary prevention of cancer

This group of preventive measures includes various types of medical examinations aimed at identifying precancerous diseases, as well as precursors of oncology.

In this case, the following methods of examination are involved:

fluorography - an x-ray examination of the lungs, aimed at detecting cancer of the lungs and mediastinum;
mammography - an x-ray of the mammary glands, which allows suspecting breast cancer;
cytological examination of a smear from the cervix and from cervical canal– prevention of cervical cancer;
endoscopic studies. In Japan, absolutely all people over the age of 35 undergo a colonoscopy every six months, which makes it possible to detect colon cancer at an early stage. This should also include bronchoscopy, which allows to exclude cancer of the bronchi and lungs.
MRI and CT, including with contrast;
A blood test for tumor markers - special chemicals, the concentration of which increases when oncology occurs. Most types of cancer have their own tumor markers.

Secondary cancer prevention measures are implemented at the level of state programs: all people over a certain age must undergo fluorography, women over 35 years of age - mammography. If you suspect cancer, you should consult an oncologist who will prescribe clarifying studies.

Note: the introduction of cancer prevention screening programs has increased the detection of the disease in the early stages by 50%. This, in turn, made it possible to reduce mortality from cancer by 15-20%.

Secondary prevention methods include measures to cancer self-diagnosis. The effectiveness of self-diagnosis is especially clearly visible on the example of breast cancer prevention - every woman should be able to palpate her mammary glands for the presence of formations in them. At a consultation with an oncologist, you can get the necessary skills and apply them as often as possible - the appearance of even a small formation in the mammary gland is a reason for consulting a doctor and a more detailed examination.

For more information about breast cancer prevention, see the video review:

Tertiary cancer prevention

Preventive measures from this group are aimed at detecting tumor recurrence in patients already treated for cancer, as well as at early diagnosis of metastasis. In most cases, an oncologist is engaged in these activities, whose consultation can be obtained at any district clinic or at a specialized oncology dispensary.

Important: every patient ever treated for cancer should have regular physical examinations with an oncologist.

The frequency of these inspections:

The first year is quarterly.
The second year - once every six months.
The third and subsequent - annually.

You will receive exhaustive information about all existing measures for the prevention of cancer by watching this video review:

Gudkov Roman, resuscitator

Medicine has always attached particular importance to the prevention of cancer and other diseases, because, as you know, it is easier to prevent a disease than to treat it. Behind the seeming simplicity of the proposed measures, there is a real opportunity to prevent the disease, this long-term perspective to combat the disease, the treatment of which is still a difficult and sometimes insoluble task.

We live in an age of urbanization, the development of industry and technology, but along with the advancement of science and technology, humanity has become acquainted with and experienced the full range of its adverse effects. We breathe carcinogens, we eat them, our houses are full of chemical compounds that cannot but affect the body. Often, the person himself contributes to the deterioration of his health, being carried away by smoking, alcohol, junk food. If almost everyone can admit to themselves that they are causing conscious harm, then not everyone is able to give up their habits and change their lifestyle.

Scientists have found that the risk of cancer by 30-35% is associated with nutrition, smoking adds the same amount, various infectious diseases predetermine about 17% of tumors, alcohol - 4%, and only 2% are due to polluted environment and heredity.

When the question arises why a tumor appeared, many tend to “sin” for genetic anomalies and the environmental situation, forgetting about what they eat and how much time they devote to physical activity, sleep and timely preventive visits to the doctor. Meanwhile, it is easy to calculate that more than 80% of tumors are associated with way of life and environmental factors.

One way or another, prevention is not only a very effective way to prevent cancer, but also the cheapest, which does not require significant material costs. The apparent simplicity of preventive measures may give the false impression of their uselessness, but this is far from the case. Of course, no one can fully guarantee that a tumor will never arise, but still people leading a healthy lifestyle, at times reduce the likelihood of an insidious disease. Medicine offers universal measures applicable in all countries and in any conditions, which constitute the concept of a healthy lifestyle.

The main stages of prevention

To more effectively provide medical care and prevent the development of diseases, three main stages of preventive measures have been identified:

These stages allow not only timely detection of predisposing precancerous and background processes, but also dynamic monitoring of patients of all risk groups.

Primary Prevention: Simple Daily Rules

In developed countries, where the population feels personally responsible for their health, if only for economic reasons, since high-quality treatment is expensive and far from accessible to everyone, primary prevention methods are very developed and widely used. There, it is almost impossible to see smokers at public transport stops or in city parks, but there are quite a lot of people of different ages jogging or cycling. It cannot but rejoice that such hobbies are becoming popular with us.

Healthcare, in turn, offers various screening programs, actively conducts educational activities aimed at improving the awareness and knowledge of the population in the field of prevention.

According to experts, about a third of cases of malignant tumors are associated with our daily habits and lifestyle, which we are able to change and control:

Smoking is out of fashion!

Smoking is one of the most significant and aggressive, and it's not about nicotine, as many people think. It is known that when inhaling the combustion products of tobacco and paper, dozens of various dangerous substances, including radioactive ones, enter the body. The role of smoking as a cause of lung cancer is doubtful except for very persistent optimists. Yes, indeed, there are known cases of respiratory cancer in healthy people who have never smoked a single cigarette in their lives, but this is not a reason to reject the fact that most patients are heavy smokers in the past, and some of them are not able to give up. from addiction, even with a diagnosis of a tumor. You should not deceive yourself with those who simply spend time in the company of smoking people or “dabble” in chewing mixtures. As you know, passive smoking also kills, and tobacco mixtures can cause oral cancer very quickly.

Smoking can provoke not only respiratory diseases, but also a number of malignant tumors of various localizations, so doctors recommend starting the prevention of cancer of the lungs and other organs by giving up this habit.

Today, there is an active promotion of life without tobacco, not only with the help of doctors, but also the media, print media, and educational institutions are actively involved. Those who have never smoked are strongly advised not to try, and those who start their day with a cigarette should think about their well-being and health.

Movement is life!

We all know how important adequate physical activity is. The nature of work activity, especially urban residents, a sedentary lifestyle, prolonged exposure to the monitor screen do not contribute to improving well-being. Meanwhile, scientists have shown that the risk of bowel or breast cancer in older women increases by a third in conditions of physical inactivity.

About half an hour of physical education daily is enough for an adult to maintain good health and correct operation organs and systems. Children and adolescents need movement even more, so parents should take care of the physical activity of the younger generation. Following the principles of a healthy lifestyle, it is not necessary to visit gyms or fitness clubs. If you do not have time or opportunity for this - walk in the fresh air on foot, go jogging, swim in the pool, do daily exercises at home.

In many countries, at the state level, programs have been adopted to finance the construction of sports facilities, the arrangement of jogging tracks and parks in the urban area, so that anyone can maintain their health at minimal material costs.

Excess weight can rightfully be considered the scourge of modern society along with cardiovascular pathology, but not everyone knows that obesity promotes cancer of the pancreas, body of the uterus, kidneys and other organs. There is no health without normal weight, therefore, those who decided to improve their condition and prevent various diseases and tumors, you should get rid of the hated excess kilograms. A simple recipe can help: eat less and move more.

We are what we eat…

Even the ancient Greeks, through observations, made a simple conclusion: human health is directly related to the products that he consumes. One of the steps to reduce the likelihood of cancer is to follow the principles of proper nutrition. It is absolutely not necessary to deny yourself everything, to completely lose the pleasure of eating your favorite dishes or sweets, but you still need to adhere to some rules.

In order to reduce the risk of colon and prostate cancer, you need to limit the consumption of so-called red meat, canned meat products. In the diet of a person leading a healthy lifestyle, there is no place for semi-finished products, fast food, smoked meats and fried foods containing significant amounts of carcinogens (benzpyrene, in particular).

Alcohol consumed in excessive amounts leads not only to liver cancer as the final stage after alcoholic cirrhosis, but also to tumors of the esophagus, stomach, and oral cavity. Doctors and scientists do not call for abandoning alcoholic beverages in general, and for residents of countries where centuries-old traditions of brewing or winemaking have developed, this is almost impossible to do. Preventive medicine is committed to limiting alcohol consumption, especially by women and young people. The combination of alcohol with smoking is a great danger, which at times increases the possibility of cancer of the oral cavity, larynx, and organs of the gastrointestinal tract, so it is better to refuse such an “explosive mixture”.

What foods should be consumed for the prevention of tumors? Those who do not want to get cancer prefer vegetables and fruits, greens, salads, seasoned vegetable oil instead of mayonnaise, legumes and whole grains. Without giving up meat, preference should be given to low-fat varieties, poultry, and fish. When choosing dairy products, it is better to pay attention to low-fat cottage cheese, cheeses, kefir or yogurt.

It is useful to use onions and garlic, containing phytoncides and natural antioxidants. They tried to prove the anti-cancer properties of garlic even with the help of scientific research, including on animals. The results showed that people who regularly eat garlic are actually less likely to get cancer, but it is still premature to draw conclusions. The passion for garlic is most often associated with a plant-based diet or big share vegetable components in the diet, so it would be unfair to say that it is garlic that protects against cancer. With the undoubted benefits of garlic for health in general, its use should be limited to people with stomach ulcers, cholelithiasis, and a tendency to bleeding.

It has been proven that a diet consisting mainly of plant components can prevent not only diseases of the cardiovascular system, but also the development of malignant tumors, therefore vegetarians are much less likely to get sick. Vegetables and fruits containing vitamins C, E, group B, etc. have antitumor properties due to high antioxidant activity, which prevents spontaneous genetic mutations and damage to genes. It is not necessary, however, to exclude meat from the diet, because it contains essential amino acids, iron and other important components, and any one-sided diet does not improve overall health.

Video: Food in Cancer Prevention - Living Healthy!

Healthy sleep and calm nerves

Sufficient and proper night sleep is very important for cancer prevention. Some biochemical processes, the formation of certain hormones, occur at night and early in the morning, so it is so important to achieve a state of deep and restful sleep at night and at dawn. This is especially true for women in whom the synthesis of the hormone prolactin occurs around 4 o'clock in the morning. Even with a good exercise regime and diet, it is impossible to talk about a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk of cancer without good sleep and rest.

The role of stress in increasing the likelihood of cancer is debatable and has not been finally proven, but still people who often experience nervous strain are more prone to various diseases, therefore it is better to try to protect your nerves. Trying to relieve stress with a glass of wine, beer or something stronger, a cigarette, or both at the same time is not only pointless, but also fraught with malignant tumors, so it is much better to prefer the gym, water treatments or walks.

Secondary prevention

Secondary prevention includes the timely detection of precancerous diseases, as well as monitoring risk groups for the development of a particular tumor. If you are unlucky enough to fall into these categories of patients, then you need to carefully monitor your health and not be lazy to visit a doctor, because a tumor can appear at any time on the ground already available for it.

Identification of risk groups is based on mass medical examinations and preventive examinations.

It is especially important to monitor workers in hazardous industries, women of reproductive age, people with an unfavorable family history when close relatives had cancer.

An important role in secondary prevention is played by screening examinations, which allow covering maximum amount of people. So, every year to all persons who have reached the age of 18, it is necessary to undergo fluorography to exclude pulmonary pathology. Needless to say, not every even a conscious citizen voluntarily undergoes this study. Often this is done involuntarily due to the need to visit a narrow specialist, hospitalization or passing a medical examination.

For the prevention of breast cancer, women over the age of 40 are recommended to undergo mammography once a year, and younger patients of a mammologist with existing benign tumors, mastopathy can do an ultrasound examination of the mammary glands.

Cervical cancer is terrible not only because it is becoming an increasingly frequent diagnosis. This disease is often detected in young women, especially in the presence of a viral infection, dyshormonal changes in the cervix, injuries after childbirth or abortion, etc. To prevent malignant tumors of this localization, you should visit a gynecologist at least once a year, who will examine and take smears for cytological examination.

Women with an increased risk of cervical cancer, as well as young girls before the onset of sexual activity, doctors also offer specific prevention - administration of the human papillomavirus vaccine, which has a pronounced oncogenic effect. Disputes about the vaccine do not subside among the townsfolk, often on the Internet you can stumble upon furious warnings and beliefs in supposedly terrible side effects, but the opinion of doctors is unequivocal: the vaccine is effective against cancer and safe.

Prostate cancer is considered the most common cancer in men all representatives of the stronger sex after 40 years of age need to visit a urologist every year, undergo a digital examination of the prostate and take an analysis for prostate-specific antigen. Such a study makes it possible to suspect cancer in the earliest stages, when the patient can still be cured.

In the presence of a high risk of tumors for which a genetic mechanism of occurrence has been proven (cancer of the prostate, breast, ovaries), it makes sense to conduct a cytogenetic study. There are cases of prophylactic removal of the mammary glands or ovaries in women who have fulfilled their childbearing function in order to avoid a tumor in the future.

Many countries where there is a high incidence of certain types of cancer have adopted their own effective screening programs. So, residents of Japan are recommended to undergo fibrogastroscopy once a year for the timely diagnosis of stomach pathology. The procedure is not pleasant, but the Japanese managed to achieve the highest results in the world in terms of the number of detected early stomach cancers and the number of favorable outcomes of the disease.

Does aspirin prevent cancer?

Scientists around the world are trying to find drugs to prevent cancer. This direction in medicine is considered new, and the anticancer properties of individual drugs with their long-term use are only being studied. However, in some US clinics methods of chemoprophylaxis are already being introduced and give a positive result.

Doctors noticed that people who took aspirin for a long time to prevent cardiovascular diseases suffered less from cancer of the stomach and intestines, lungs and breast. Moreover, researchers from the UK have also established the mechanism of the antitumor effect of low doses of aspirin.

Anticancer activity is manifested when using acetylsalicylic acid for 5 years or more, and scientists considered that the possible benefits of its use outweigh the risk of dangerous complications (bleeding, including deadly ones) by at least 2 times. However, I would like to warn against self-administration of any drugs, even seemingly harmless at first glance. Only a doctor can advise taking any medication for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes.

A few words about traditional medicine

Separately, mention should be made of, the methods and means of which are trusted by almost more people than doctors. Prevention of cancer with folk remedies is permissible only in cases where the “drugs” used are safe for health, and it is better if they are just food - cabbage, carrots, beets, the same garlic, greens, etc. Tea or a decoction of rose hips, raspberries, cranberry juice. Eating vegetables and fruits that contain sufficient amounts of vitamin C is the best folk remedy from cancer.

Very popular in recent years, who are not only recommended to actively treat all stages of cancer, but also to carry out its prevention. Hemlock is a poisonous plant, so it is best to avoid eating it, and if you do decide to, tell your doctor about it. The effectiveness of this plant has not been proven either for the treatment of tumors or as their prevention, so you should think carefully before using it.

The craze is rampant. If treatment often comes from hopelessness, when the patient is in the final stage of the disease, then completely healthy people are ready to carry out prevention. Regular use of soda causes a decrease in acidity in the stomach, and over time, atrophy of the mucous membrane, a precancerous condition, may develop. Is it worth it to carry out such prophylaxis of tumors when there is a chance to acquire a precancerous process? Probably not.

And, perhaps, the newest thing in folk medicine is vitamin B 17, which, in fact, is not a vitamin. The substance amygdalin, called vitamin B 17, was isolated from the seeds of bitter almonds, and adherents of alternative methods of treatment claim that it has a powerful anti-cancer effect. Amygdalin is also found in the seeds of apricots, apples, and grapes. As with baking soda, lack of research and development medicines containing amygdalin is explained by the "conspiracy theory" of pharmaceutical companies "cashing on cancer patients."

Official medicine does not recognize amygdalin as an anticancer agent and warns of its unsafety, and the substance itself is banned in many countries of the world. Whether there are seeds of apricots, apples or grapes - everyone should decide for himself, but you need to know that amygdalin is a very toxic compound, and its excessive use can cause serious poisoning.

Last step of prevention

Tertiary prevention is the lot of patients who have had malignant tumors in the past. Its meaning is to prevent a possible recurrence of cancer and the appearance of metastases. For this it is important:

In conclusion, I would like to note that there is no ideal remedy for cancer or other diseases, and even if the recommendations of specialists are followed, the likelihood of a tumor remains. However, a healthy and active lifestyle proper nutrition and good mood allow to reduce risks to a minimum, being the key to longevity and well-being.