World Cancer Day is a global initiative when the entire world comes together to raise awareness for cancer. At Duff Street Medical Clinic, we mark World Cancer Day to place cancer at the forefront of our conversation.
What is the importance of World Cancer Day?
World Cancer Day aims to create awareness and encourage all individuals on cancer prevention, it’s early diagnosis and cancer treatment.
Cancer is a deadly disease. It is not only the leading cause of death in Australia but worldwide. It accounts for about three in ten deaths across the country. More than half of the population will develop at least one type of skin cancer, and one in two Australian men and women will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.
Although cancer remains a major health crisis, no one knows the exacts cause of most cases of cancer. However, your risk for cancer increases with certain lifestyle choices like excessive use of tobacco or exposure to ultraviolet radiations for a long time and many more.
According to the World Health Organisation, cancer still remains preventable. In fact, between 30% to 50% of cancer deaths could be prevented by modifying or avoiding key risk factors, provided we make the right lifestyle choices.
Experts believe that many cancer cases can be prevented through a combination of healthy choices and regular cancer screening tests.
Below is a list of ways that can help reduce your risk of developing cancer
- Exercise regularly. Regular physical activities such as running or playing a sport are good for overall health. It is recommended to get 150 minutes of exercise by adults every week
- Maintain a healthy weight. Many studies have found a link between overweight and obesity to increased risk for certain types of cancers such as the liver and endocrine cancer
- Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits. Limit the consumption of processed food and added sugar
- Protect your skin against exposure to ultraviolet radiation
- Get vaccinated against Hepatitis B
- Regularly visit your doctors and busy as you may be, take the time to discuss your risk factors with your doctors
- There are warning signs and symptoms of many types of cancer. You should never overlook them and seek immediate medical help when you notice one
Spread the word for cancer prevention this World Cancer Day
1. Get Social and spread the word
Join the movement and post a personal message on your social media platform through #WorldCancerDay and #IAmAndIWill.
If you use Twitter, be a part of the conversation leading up to, and on World Cancer Day. using the hashtags. You can join the conversation at Cancer Australia’s Twitter Page.
2. Commit to your wellbeing
Another way to be at the forefront of cancer awareness is by identifying your risk factors and lifestyle behaviours that may lead to cancer.
So, this World Cancer Day, reflect on how cancer can impact you or your loved ones and commit to your wellbeing by making an effort to get healthy and reduce your risk factors
3. Reach out for help
Whether it is for you or any of your family members, early cancer detection is the best protection against cancer. To find cancer early, while it’s still small and not spreading, all individuals should have regular cancer screening tests.
Screening tests are very effective in cancer prevention as it will help your doctors to identify cancers before it shows any symptoms.
At Duff Street Medical Clinic, our team of doctors can provide a personalised treatment plan suited to your medical needs including chronic disease management such as cancer.
If you have any health concern book for an online appointment or call us at (03) 5995 4988.