April is recognized as Cancer Control Month in Henry and Stark Counties, highlighting the importance of prevention in the fight against cancer. The Health Department, alongside First Choice Healthcare and the American Cancer Society, is urging residents to take action through ten practical steps. These include quitting tobacco, getting vaccinated, scheduling regular checkups, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying active. Limiting alcohol, protecting your skin from UV rays, and following safety guidelines at work are also advised. For more guidance, community members can visit local health department websites or reach out to the American Cancer Society for support and resources.
RaeAnn Tucker, Health Department Director of Health Promotion, said, “While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of cancer, we can take action to reduce our chances of developing this disease. To beat this disease, prevention is the key. Today, scientists think most cancers may be related to lifestyle and environment – what you eat, drink, if you smoke and where you work and play. The good news is you can help reduce your own cancer risk by taking control of things in your daily life.”
- If you smoke or chew tobacco, stop! Smoking is a major cancer risk to smokers and everyone near them. If you are going to have a baby and you smoke, you pass the smoke and the risk right on to your baby. The combination of smoking and drinking alcohol is even riskier.
- Get Vaccinated. Cancer prevention includes protection from certain viral infections. Talk to your doctor about vaccination against HPV and Hepatitis B.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cervical and other genital cancers as well as squamous cell cancers of the head and neck. The HPV vaccine is recommended for girls and boys ages 11 and 12. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the use of vaccine Gardasil 9 for males and females ages 9 to 45.
- Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B can increase the risk of developing liver cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for certain adults at high risk — such as adults who are sexually active but not in a mutually monogamous relationship, people with sexually transmitted infections, people who use intravenous drugs, men who have sex with men, and health care or public safety workers who might be exposed to infected blood or body fluids.
- Have regular check-ups. Ask your health care provider about the American Cancer Society’s guidelines for early detection screenings.
- Maintaining a healthy weight will help you reduce your risk of cancer – as well as heart disease and diabetes. Watching your portion sizes – especially of foods high in fat and sugar – is an important way to help watch your weight.
- Enjoy more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Eat at least five servings of colorful fruits and vegetables each day. They are packed with disease-fighting nutrients, are generally low in fat and calories, and may help you control your weight. Try to eat at least three servings of whole-grain products each day.
- Limit how much saturated fat you eat by cutting back on red meats (beef, pork, and lamb), processed meats (bologna, salami, and hot dogs), and high-fat dairy products.
- If you drink alcohol, limit yourself to one drink a day if you are female and two a day if you are male.
- Get some physical activity like walking, gardening, or dancing for at least 30 minutes or more on five or more days of the week. Check with your health care provider before you begin an exercise routine.
- Protect your skin from UV rays. Stay out of the sun as much as you can between 10am and 4pm, when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest. When you are outside, cover up with clothing. Wear a hat with a brim that shades your face, ears, and neck. Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher on all skin not covered with clothing. Wear sunglasses with UV protection. Don’t use sunlamps or tanning salons.
- If you work with harmful chemicals or fibers like asbestos, wear protective clothes and follow directions exactly. Be sure to learn emergency procedures.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments encourage residents seeking cancer information or support to explore several resources. The American Cancer Society offers guidance round-the-clock at 1-800-ACS-2345 as well as online at www.cancer.org. Locally, updates and resources are available at www.henrystarkhealth.com. For those active on social media, follow Henry and Stark County Health Departments on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, support programs, and health tips. Early detection and awareness remain crucial in the fight against cancer. Connecting to these trusted sources ensures individuals and families have access to timely, accurate information and assistance.