Globally, over 8.8 million cancer related deaths are recorded annually, of which an estimated 80,000 are Nigerians. This means that 240 Nigerians die every day from cancer. It is observed that 4 out of 5 persons having cancer results to death in Nigeria (WHO). This is alarming.
Today is the World Cancer Day and this year's theme is "We can. I can"; which looks into collective and individual efforts in reducing the global burden of cancer.
Healthy Habits for preventing Cancer
1. Don't use tobacco nor stay close to a user
Either smoking or chewing tobacco have been linked with several types of cancer such as lung, throat, cervix and kidney. Secondhand smokers are also put at risk of lung cancer.
2. Eat a healthy diet
Include a lot of fruits and vegetables in your diets especially the colored ones, avoid obesity and limit your intake of processed foods.
3. Take Alcohol in moderation
If you don't take alcohol, good for you but if you do, take it in moderation. Abuse of alcohol have been linked to breast, colon, lung, kidney and liver cancer.
4. Maintain a healthy weight and be physically active
At least, 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic physical exercise will do you a lot of good.
5. Protect yourself from the sun
Most cases of skin cancer are caused by adverse exposure to the sun. Avoid the midday sun and cover exposed areas of your body.
6. Go for regular medical checkups
The earlier it is discovered, the greater your chances of surviving it.
For females: know the breast cancer self check procedure.
For males (age 50 and above): go for prostrate cancer check up.
Your individual effort to reducing the burden of cancer is sharing this information.
#WeCanIcan
#WorldCancerDay
