Director, Emergency Services, Bikur Cholim Hospital
I want to speak a little about cancer. While this is not my
field, there are some important points. Let's speak about
risks.
Skin cancer — the worst one is melanoma — can be
fatal. Light-skinned individuals with many moles are at risk
if they live in sunny countries. Sun exposure and tanning are
risks.
Mouth cancer, Larynx (voice-box) cancer is another bad one.
Smoking increases risks. Mouth cancers are also higher in
denture wearers, so it is worthwhile to keep your teeth for
as long as possible.
Excessive radiation increases risks of brain cancer. Avoid
repeated CAT scans if possible.
Smoking, excessive drinking of alcohol, acid reflux —
are all risks for esophageal cancer. It is a terrible
cancer.
Breast (Mammary gland) cancer is the biggest killer, though
early detection can bring cure. There is higher risk in
people with history of the disease in the family, overweight,
those starting to have children late. Those having early
menarche or late menopause should be screened.
Stomach cancer is higher in Japanese and those eating
seafood/fish, although this is very healthy food and the
cancer is not that common. People with ulcers also develop
more stomach cancer.
Lung cancer is caused by smoking.
Mesothilioma, cancer of the lung lining, is caused by
asbestos exposure.
Pancreatic cancer is related to drinking excessive amounts of
alcohol.
Gall bladder cancer is related to untreated gall stones.
Liver cancer is related to exposure to chemicals such as
PVC.
Colon cancer is the most common cancer. Excessive fat intake
and constipation are risks. Eat plenty of vegetables and
fruit.
Leukemia is related to radiation. Ovarian is related to
family history.
Uterine cancer is related to being overweight.
Cervical cancer is related to cervical warts.
This is just a short list, and be aware that all cancers can
occur without any risk factors at all. All cancers need
repeated exposure to develop, so a one-time fatty meal or
excessive drinking will not cause a serious problem. But if
you are a smoker, or overweight, it is time to take control
of your life.
If you have cancer in the family, be screened. Write me in
care of the Yated.
A message from GlaxoSmithKline, sponsor of this
column. Zovirax cream treats cold sores the way
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