10 WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR CANCER RISK

1. EAT RIGHT.    Choose a variety of nutritious foods, primarily from plant sources. Include five or more servings of vegetables and fruit daily and choose whole grains rather than refined grains. Limit red meat consumption.
   
   
2. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT.    Excess weight and obesity are associated with a higher risk for many diseases. These include cancers of the breast, uterus, colon, and rectum. Balance caloric intake with physical activity.
   
   
3. STOP SMOKING.  Tobacco use accounts for most lung cancers and plays a role in the development of other cancers, including those of the cervix and bladder.
   
   
4. AVOID SECONDHAND SMOKE.  Breathing secondhand smoke can cause lung cancer and other diseases, including heart disease, in nonsmokers.
   
   
5. DRINK ONLY IN MODERATION.  Alcohol consumption is linked to many cancers, including those of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, and liver.  Women who drink alcohol should have no more than one drink a day.
   
   
6. BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE.  Engaging in at least 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity can improve your overall health and reduce your risk for cancers of the breast, colon and other sites.
   
   
7. STAY SUN SAFE.  Use a sun block with an SPF of at least 15 year-round. Wear UV sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and long-sleeved clothes.  Avoid the sun from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
   
   
8. HAVE CANCER SCREENINGS AS RECOMMENDED.  See Important Health Tests.
   
   
9. TAKE CARE WITH X-RAYS & HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.  When having x-rays, ask for shields to protect other parts of your body.  Follow proper direction when dealing with chemicals, metals, dust and loose fibers.
   
   
10. DECIDE CAREFULLY BEFORE STARTING OR CONTINUING HRT.  Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increases the risk of breast cancer and other health problems.  Discuss these issues with your doctor.