Health Matters

11 WAYS TO REDUCE CANCER RISK

Each year, millions of new cases of cancer are diagnosed across the globe. Although there is no definitive cause for many of the cancers out there, certain lifestyle choices put a person at a greater risk for cancer. By making a few simple changes, that risk can be reduced.

1. Eat steamed broccoli. Broccoli is one of the superfoods purported to help reduce cancer risk. However, microwaving or overcooking broccoli can destroy up to 97 percent of broccoli's cancer-preventing flavanoids. Therefore, eat broccoli raw or lightly steam it to retain the most nutrients.

2. Load up on garlic. Garlic might contribute to bad breath, but the side effect may be worth it. Garlic contains sulfur that can help fend off cancer by stimulating the body's natural immune system.

3. Enjoy orange foods. Sweet potatoes, carrots and cantaloupe contain carotinoids, which can reduce risk of cancer.

4. Eat some blueberries. Blueberries top the list for antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to cancer.

5. Drink plenty of water. The body needs water to stay healthy and flush out contaminants. Therefore, enjoy eight glasses per day.

6. Get a little sunlight. Not only does sunlight boost mood, which can reduce stress and keep the body in top form, the body receives most of its vitamin D from the sun. Minimal sun exposure will increase vitamin D in the body. Too little vitamin D can actually contribute to some cancers.

7. Reduce animal fat intake. Cut down on the amount of high-fat dairy and meat products consumed.

8. Walk 30 minutes a day. Even moderate exercise can reduce cancer risk.

9. Reduce exposure to chemicals. Let those dandelions sprout in the lawn, skip dry cleaning clothes and use natural items around the house for cleaning. This reduces a person's exposure to potentially toxic chemicals that may contribute to cancer.

10. Enjoy grapes. Grapes contain the cancer-fighting compound resveratrol, which is found in wine. However, grapes do not offer the potentially negative consequences of alcohol consumption.

11. Choose organic whenever possible. Organic foods are grown without chemical pesticides and fertilizers, making them better for the body.

GET TO KNOW ORAL CANCERS

Many cancers are wel known and quite comon. Oral cancers, or those that occur in the mouth and on the lips, aren't discussed as frequently but are just as important to know about.

About 50,000 new cases of head and neck cancers, in which oral cancers are grouped, are diagnosed each year in the U.S. Roger Ebert, the famous movie critic, lost his lower jaw from complications from oral cancer. He currently uses computer technology to communicate and must be fed intravenously because of an inability to eat in the standard manner. Denver Nuggets coach George Karl was

recently diagnosed with a squamous cell carcinoma on his tonsil. Mouth cancers can develop on the tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, or on the roof of the mouth. These types of cancers are treated similarly in most cases. Because there can be many causes for mouth ailments, oral cancers initially may be difficult to diagnose. There are some symptoms that may be indicative of mouth cancer.

These include:
* a sore that will not heal
* jaw pain or stiffness
* a feeling of something stuck in the throat
* white patches on the mouth
* difficult or painful chewing
* loose teeth or improperly fitting dentures
* a lump or thickening of the skin of the mouth

Visit the dentist or a doctor if any symptoms persist for more than two weeks. A professional will rule out other potential causes, such as toothache or infection first.

Most oral cancers begin in the thin, squamous cells that line the inside of the mouth and lips. These cells can mutate and eventually cause tumors. If left unchecked, oral cancers can spread to other areas of the body. While there is no definitive cause for oral cancers, there are certain factors that put a person at greater risk of getting a mouth cancer. First and foremost is any type of tobacco use. Smokers and those who chew tobacco are at a very high rate for mouth cancer.

Individuals who use alcohol in abundance are also at a higher risk.

Other possible causes include:
* previous radiation treatment for other head or neck cancers,
* unprotected exposure of the lips to UV rays, and
* contraction of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Oral cancers can rob a person of the ability to speak, eat, drink, and could result in some sort of disfigurement. Early detection and treatment can help prevent these effects. That is why a doctor should be consulted promptly if there are persistent symptoms.