04/02/2022
is set aside annually to commemorate the disease that instils fear, anxiety and remembrance of many who have lost their lives to the dreaded cancer scourge.
In the midst of the seeming gloom, there is hope which lies in PREVENTION and EARLY DETECTION. Most illnesses have better prognosis when picked up early and appropriate interventions are put in place.
is a global health challenge that cuts across races, gender and people of various ages. Though no particular single cause has been identified, research shows that a combination of genetics, lifestyle, diet, environmental and occupational exposures play crucial roles in its manifestation.
Cancer may affect any part of the body and usually begins as damage at the cellular level with genetic material mutations resulting in abnormal and rapid multiplication of cells. The clinical presentation of different cancers differ but cases of unexplained weight loss, reduced immunity and dissemination of the cancer deposits to distant sites are common.
The major routes of cancer spread are via the blood stream, lymphatics and contiguous spread to surrounding body organs. Prevention entails maintaining a healthy lifestyle such as eating balanced diets, reduction of processed foods, consistent exercises, alcohol restrictions, smoking cessation and weight loss.
At the work place, reduction of occupational health hazards such as exposure to ionizing radiation, chemicals and potential carcinogens must be instituted.
The benefit of a comprehensive health check cannot be over emphasized in early detection especially the routine self-breast examination, mammogram, pap smear, prostate specific antigen , colonoscopy and biopsy of suspicious growths.
We can help ourselves and loved ones by creating awareness and acting promptly with a high index of suspicion for the disease. There are many cancer survivors whose stories ended favorably because of early detection and implementation of the right management when the condition could still be salvaged.
Let us eat and live intentionally with the goals of health consciousness and a good quality of life. - VICHS TEAM.