NATIONAL Cancer Awareness Month is observed annually every February to raise awareness about cancer and spread the importance of early detection, which is paramount to its prevention.

This year marks the second year of the campaign “Close the care gap” to reduce the inequities that exist in accessing quality cancer services worldwide.

According to Dr. Rosario Valenzuela-Pitargue, head of clinical oncology at the Region 1 Medical Center in Dagupan City, the five most common cancer diseases in the country are breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, and prostate cancer.

“Top cancer diseases that lead to mortality include lung cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, stomach cancer, and breast cancer,” she told the Tongtongan ed PIA media forum of the Philippine Information Agency.  This situation is not all doom and gloom.

Pitargue said that raising awareness and knowledge and early detection will improve cancer outcomes by providing care at the earliest possible stage. Early diagnosis is important because cancer cases could be prevented and the number of cancer deaths could be reduced significantly by choosing a cancer-smart lifestyle.

Dr. Dean Zenarosa, PIA resident doctor, shared some lifestyle changes we can make to help reduce the risk of cancer. Here are some tips:

Quit smoking Not smoking is the best thing you can do to reduce your risk of cancer. Harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke affect the entire body, not just our lungs.

Be wise, exercise– Getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity at least five days a week can make a big difference in your general health and well-being. Add exercise to your routine to reduce stress, increase energy, boost your immune system, control your weight.

Eat right– Having healthy food and drink can reduce your risk of cancer. Aim to have plenty of fruit and vegetables, wholegrain foods high in fiber and healthy proteins. Cut down on processed and red meat, alcohol and high calorie foods and drinks.

Wear sunscreen -Being safe in the sun reduces the risk of skin cancer.  But too much UV (ultraviolet) radiation from the sun or sunbeds damages our skin cells. When the sun is strong, spend time in the shade, cover up with clothing, and use sunscreen.

Cut back on alcohol – Cutting back on alcohol reduces your risk of seven types of cancer. It doesn’t matter what type it is – all alcohol can cause damage.

HPV vaccine – The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine is offered free to children aged 11-13, and some other groups. It helps protect against HPV infection, reducing the risk of some types of cancer.

Remember these tips because being informed is the first step towards change! (PIA Pangasinan/AMMB)

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