Periodic health screenings can minimize risk of cancer
According to the American Cancer Society colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer found in men and women. It is estimated that in 2007 there will be 112,340 new cases of colon cancer and 41,420 cases of rectal cancer. Colorectal cancer will cause over 52, 000 deaths.
By MICK SEVERIN
The Trucker News Services
7/1/2008
Earlier this year a friend of mine informed me he has been diagnosed with advanced cancer of the colon. As you would expect, he and his family are devastated by the news.
He, his family and friends vow, with the help of the doctors, modern technology and drugs, to do whatever it takes to rid his body of this dreaded disease.
According to the American Cancer Society colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer found in men and women. It is estimated that in 2007 there will be 112,340 new cases of colon cancer and 41,420 cases of rectal cancer. Colorectal cancer will cause over 52, 000 deaths.
The term colorectal cancer refers to cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. Cancers in these areas take, in most cases, several years to develop and usually begin as a small polyp in the lining of the colon or rectum. A type of polyp known as an adenoma can become cancerous.
As with most diseases, living a lifestyle that helps prevent colorectal cancer and periodic health screenings can minimize your risks and increase your ability to heal.
Again, according to the American Cancer Society statistics, the death rate from colorectal cancer has been receding for over 15 years. The Society attributes the reduction in the death rate to some very important points.
These include getting regular checkups and screenings specifically for colorectal cancer if you are over 50 years of age or if you have a family history of the disease. Early detection of polyps and their removal are key to prevention.
The Society also recommends nutritional guidelines that include fruit, vegetables, whole grains, high fiber and avoiding fatty foods. Exercise is another important factor in preventing cancer or any disease. It is recommended that you engage in some sort of physical activity for 30 to 60 minutes at least five days a week.
Interestingly, the American Cancer Society also recommends supplementing your diet with multivitamins that contain folic acid, vitamin D, magnesium and calcium. Recent studies suggest these vitamins and minerals may be helpful in preventing the disease.
Aspirin and ibuprofen seem to help prevent polyps. A drug called Celebrex seems to be beneficial in helping prevent polyps in families which show a history of their development. Always check with your doctor before getting into any medicinal regimen.
Do you notice a common thread anytime we discuss cancer, heart disease, diabetes, obesity or even the common cold?
All recommendations for prevention or healing of any of these diseases or health problems include regular medical checkups, proper nutrition and exercise.
Regular medical checkups, proper nutrition and exercise. It sounds relatively simple, easy, available and affordable doesn’t it? Yet it is the simplicity that eludes us.
We can prevent or minimize so many health problems with just a small investment in time and even smaller investment in money. Take time to smell the roses and exercise, consume the right foods, and you can live a healthier, happier life.
If we can help in any way don’t hesitate to call (888) 348-7623 (FIT-ROAD) or get on the Web site, www.fitnessroad.com. We can help you develop a nutrition and exercise program that will let you live the loving, enthusiastic and fulfilling lifestyle you were born to live.
God bless you and yours, Mick.