ONCOLOGY
QUICK HEALTH TIPS
By Dr Foluke Sarimiye
Radiation/Clinical Oncologist

Cancer, the seemingly dreadful disease at this time, has emerged as a major public health problem in developing countries, matching its effects in industrialized nations.

However, there is clear evidence that healthy lifestyles and public health action of screening by government and health practitioners could stem this trend, and prevent as many as one third of cancers worldwide.

The following health tips will serve as a guide:

Be self-observant:
Any abnormal swelling, growth or lump you notice that hasn’t been there from birth, or has been, but it’s changing in its size, shape or color please see your doctor.

Over two weeks symptoms:
Any condition causing you pain and distress that persists for two weeks despite taking rest, adequate nutrition, analgesics or off the counter prescriptions; please see the doctor.

Unusual bleeding:
Bleeding is a common symptom of cancer. If you notice any unusual bleeding from any part of your body such as epitaxis, postcoitalbleeding, inter menstrual bleeding; please see your doctor

Weight loss:
Unexplainable weight loss despite balance healthy diet and rest is often a common symptom in cancer. See your doctor for checkup.

Smoking and Excessive Alocohol Consumption. These are implicated in many cancers, the pleasure in not worth the risk.

Reduce exposure to dust, chemicals, radiation and sun (especially if you work in industries manufacturing chemicals or your work is mostly outdoors) by wearing protective gears, face masks, hand gloves, hats, sunscreen glasses, apply body lotions that contains SPF.

Exercise regularly, Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, drink water (at least 3 Liters daily), reduce intake of saturated fat and red meat; eat fish and chicken preferably (while eating chicken, take off the skin as often as you can).

Healthy life style, Prevention, Screening, Early detection and Prompt treatment often leads to Cancer Survival

Studies have shown that Breast cancer and Cervical cancer are common cancers occurring in women and Prostrate cancer in men; the following steps will help in early detection and with prompt action taken after definitive diagnosis, it often leads to survival

Ladies ensure regular monthly breast self-examination and annual mammography for those who are 40-45 years and above.

Sexually active ladies should have a pap smear done every three years

Men in the age group 40-45 years and above should please have an annual PSA check done.

N.B! If you have any lump, growth or lesion removed from your body, demand a HISTOLOGY REPORT from your doctor

HEALTH IS LIFE

STAY HEALTHY!