National Cancer Awareness Day, observed annually on November 7 in India since 2014, is a significant occasion dedicated to spreading awareness about the early detection, prevention, and treatment of cancer. It also coincides with the birth anniversary of the eminent Nobel Laureate, Marie Curie, a Polish-French physicist and chemist born in 1867. Marie Curie’s groundbreaking discoveries of radium and polonium have been pivotal in the ongoing fight against cancer.
Marie Curie’s pioneering work laid the foundation for nuclear energy radiotherapy, a critical tool in modern cancer treatment.
National Cancer Awareness Day serves as a reminder of the importance of early diagnosis, preventive measures, and effective cancer treatment. In 1975, the National Cancer Control Programme aimed at establishing cancer treatment facilities throughout the country. However, in 1984-85, the program shifted its focus towards early detection and cancer prevention.
National Cancer Awareness Day 2023: 6 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Cancer
- Maintain Healthy Weight According to the Siteman Cancer Institute, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in lowering the risk of cancer. Obesity is linked to several types of cancer, making it essential to monitor your calorie intake. Adopting smaller meal portions, avoiding sugary beverages, and engaging in regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid Tobacco Consumption Smoking is associated with various cancers, including lung, mouth, throat, voice box, pancreatic, cervical, kidney, and bladder cancers. Passive smoking also increases the risk of lung cancer. Committing to a tobacco-free life or seeking cessation support is a critical step in cancer prevention. It’s equally important to educate your children about the dangers of smoking, vaping, and using smokeless tobacco.
- Healthy Diet Reducing the consumption of saturated fats and red meat can lower the risk of colon cancer. Instead, incorporate fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals. Opt for chicken, fish, or beans as sources of protein, avoiding red and processed meats. If your diet lacks essential nutrients, consider taking a multivitamin.
- Limit Alcohol Limiting alcohol intake is another measure to reduce the risk of cancer. Even small amounts, such as half to one drink a day, can increase the likelihood of breast and colon cancer. Choosing to abstain from alcohol is the healthiest option. Seek guidance from a healthcare professional if you find it challenging to quit.
- Protection from the Sun While the sun’s warmth can be enjoyable, excessive exposure to it raises the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. Tanning beds present similar risks. Skin damage can start in childhood, emphasizing the need to protect children. Use sunscreen with an SPF of more than 30 when outdoors, and consider wearing hats, long-sleeve shirts, and sunglasses for added protection.
- Exercise Regularly Regular physical activity is among the best things you can do for your health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, whether it’s walking, swimming, dancing, or going to the gym. Establish a daily exercise routine, whether during lunchtime or with an after-dinner walk.
In conclusion, National Cancer Awareness Day is a valuable occasion to remember the importance of early detection, prevention, and treatment of cancer. By adopting these simple yet effective measures, you can reduce the risk of cancer and contribute to a healthier, cancer-free future.
