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Cancer Prevention
Cancer Prevention Month: Empowering Choices for a Healthier Future**
February is National Cancer Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the steps we can take to reduce our risk of cancer. With cancer being the second-leading cause of death in the United States, affecting millions of lives each year, this month serves as a crucial reminder that many cancers are preventable through informed lifestyle choices and early detection .
February is National Cancer Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the steps we can take to reduce our risk of cancer. With cancer being the second-leading cause of death in the United States, affecting millions of lives each year, this month serves as a crucial reminder that many cancers are preventable through informed lifestyle choices and early detection .
The Power of Prevention
Research shows that nearly 40% of cancer cases and 44% of cancer-related deaths are linked to modifiable risk factors, such as smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excessive sun exposure . This means that by making healthier choices, we can significantly lower our risk of developing cancer.
One of the most impactful steps you can take is to quit smoking. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and is linked to at least 20 other types of cancer. Even if you’ve smoked for years, quitting at any age can reduce your risk. Support is available through resources like the National Texting Portal, which provides free, evidence-based tips to help you quit .
Healthy Habits for Cancer Prevention
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is another key to cancer prevention. Here are some practical steps you can take:
1. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit red and processed meats, which are linked to colorectal cancer .
2. Stay Active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. Physical activity not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also reduces the risk of several cancers .
3. Limit Alcohol: Alcohol consumption increases the risk of cancers in the mouth, throat, liver, and breast. Follow CDC guidelines by limiting intake to one drink per day for women and two for men .
4. Protect Your Skin: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, avoid tanning beds, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to reduce your risk of skin cancer .
The Role of Early Detection
While prevention is key, early detection through regular screenings can save lives. Mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin checks are essential tools for catching cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages . If you’re due for a screening, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider today.
How Access Now Primary Care Can Help
At Access Now Primary Care, we’re committed to helping you take charge of your health. Whether you need guidance on quitting smoking, advice on maintaining a healthy diet, or support in scheduling cancer screenings, our team is here for you. If you have any questions about cancer prevention or would like to learn more about our services, visit our website at www.accessnowprimarycare.com or call us at 850-842-0467.
Take Action Today
This National Cancer Prevention Month, let’s empower ourselves and our communities with the knowledge and tools to reduce cancer risk. By making small, mindful changes, we can move toward a healthier, cancer-free future. Remember, prevention starts with you—take the first step today.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.accessnowprimarycare.com or call 850-842-0467.
Research shows that nearly 40% of cancer cases and 44% of cancer-related deaths are linked to modifiable risk factors, such as smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excessive sun exposure . This means that by making healthier choices, we can significantly lower our risk of developing cancer.
One of the most impactful steps you can take is to quit smoking. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and is linked to at least 20 other types of cancer. Even if you’ve smoked for years, quitting at any age can reduce your risk. Support is available through resources like the National Texting Portal, which provides free, evidence-based tips to help you quit .
Healthy Habits for Cancer Prevention
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is another key to cancer prevention. Here are some practical steps you can take:
1. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit red and processed meats, which are linked to colorectal cancer .
2. Stay Active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. Physical activity not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also reduces the risk of several cancers .
3. Limit Alcohol: Alcohol consumption increases the risk of cancers in the mouth, throat, liver, and breast. Follow CDC guidelines by limiting intake to one drink per day for women and two for men .
4. Protect Your Skin: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, avoid tanning beds, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to reduce your risk of skin cancer .
The Role of Early Detection
While prevention is key, early detection through regular screenings can save lives. Mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin checks are essential tools for catching cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages . If you’re due for a screening, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider today.
How Access Now Primary Care Can Help
At Access Now Primary Care, we’re committed to helping you take charge of your health. Whether you need guidance on quitting smoking, advice on maintaining a healthy diet, or support in scheduling cancer screenings, our team is here for you. If you have any questions about cancer prevention or would like to learn more about our services, visit our website at www.accessnowprimarycare.com or call us at 850-842-0467.
Take Action Today
This National Cancer Prevention Month, let’s empower ourselves and our communities with the knowledge and tools to reduce cancer risk. By making small, mindful changes, we can move toward a healthier, cancer-free future. Remember, prevention starts with you—take the first step today.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.accessnowprimarycare.com or call 850-842-0467.