April Is Cancer Control Month

April 1, 2016

April is Cancer Control Month, an observance declared by the president in office every year since the 1930s. This month is to observe the advances we’ve made in medical science for battling cancer, and to remind Americans that this battle is far from over. Cancer will soon be the leading cause of death in the United State but research is getting closer every day. It’s time to look at the hard facts and consider lifestyle changes and options for regular screenings. You can show your support and concern for cancer survivors during this month, and make April matter for you and your community.

Prevention Tips

One of the most important aspects of this month is about cancer prevention. You can greatly reduce your risk of this disease with these easy cancer prevention strategies:

Maintain a healthy weight. This is easily done by eating a diet mostly rich in highly nutritious fruits and vegetables that your body needs to fight. Also limit salt, sugar, and meat intake.
Exercise daily. Staying active, keeping your blood flowing, and your body moving boosts your immune system and lowers stress.
Limit alcohol intake. Liver cancer is on the rise in America. April is also Alcohol Awareness Month, so this could be your chance to make some positive life changes by reducing or eliminating your alcohol use.
Limit sun exposure. Skin cancer is also on the rise, and it can start with just one afternoon of sunbathing for a half-hour too long.
Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, now is the time to quit. There are many programs – often free – offered by your insurance plan and in your city or community.

There are over 100 different types of cancer, and while that may seem daunting, cancer prevention and risk-reduction strategies can greatly lower risk. Cancer creates a huge physical, emotional, and financial burden on those suffering and their friends and family members. Cancer prevention tactics are important for cancer survivors as well because it can improve the overall health of the individual and can help to prevent the risk of cancer coming back or returning as a second form of cancer.

Understanding Your Risk

Some factors, such as family history and substance use many contribute to the likelihood of an individual developing cancer. However, while external factors may increase the risk of cancer, it’s not always a direct link. Know your risk factor, and discuss your options with a medical professional. Other important forms of cancer control are:

Vaccines. The HPV vaccine can greatly reduce the risk of cervical and many other kinds of cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine can help lower the risk of liver cancer.
Screenings. Research shows that screenings for colorectal cancer and cervical cancer could help prevent the disease by detecting precancerous lesions.
Minority groups in the United States are more greatly affected by cancer risks than are whites. Much of this is due to factors like poverty and lack of access to prevention services and early detection screenings.
Chemoprevention. Cancer chemoprevention is the use of natural, synthetic, biological substances to reverse, hinder, or stop the development of cancer. Chemoprevention is usually used by people who have a risk of developing cancer because they have battled it before, or because they have a family history of cancer.
Stress awareness and meditation. Keeping calm won’t absolutely prevent cancer cells from developing. However, studies have shown that your chances are better of avoiding the risk of cancer or detecting it at an early stage if you are aware of your body and mindful of your daily experiences. Take some time every day to relax and feel out whatever it is that may be aggravating you. It could save your life.

There are many resources provided by the National Cancer Institute, including valuable information, links to services and financially helpful options for those who need assistance in their methods of cancer prevention. You can take power in your life by staying active, living a healthy lifestyle, and knowing when to seek professional medical help or support.

Donate Your Car, Help Kids Who May Have Cancer

A major way for you to help out cancer survivors and fighters in your community is to donate your car to Wheels for Wishes. We handle the expenses of towing and maintenance fees, and we sell your car for you in order to provide funding for children's charities. To make a car donation, simply call 1-855-278-9474 or make your donation online. Make April an important Cancer Control Month for you and your community.