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For Cancer

Cancer is a complex and life-altering disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Cancer is a formidable disease, but with the right care, support, and expertise, its impact can be minimized.

Cancer Risk Factors
  1. Age: Cancer risk generally increases with age, as genetic mutations and cumulative exposure to risk factors over time can lead to the development of cancer cells.
  2. Tobacco Use: Smoking and tobacco use are strongly linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including lung, mouth, throat, esophageal, pancreatic, bladder, kidney, and cervix cancers. Secondhand smoke exposure is also a risk factor.
  3. Alcohol Consumption: Heavy and regular alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of several cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, and breast.
  4. Unhealthy Diet: Poor dietary choices, such as a diet high in processed foods, red and processed meats, saturated fats, and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can contribute to an increased risk of various cancers.
  5. Obesity: Being overweight or obese is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast (postmenopausal), colorectal, ovarian, pancreatic, kidney, and esophageal cancers.
  6. Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity is associated with an increased risk of developing certain cancers, including colorectal, breast, and endometrial cancers.
  7. Sun Exposure and UV Radiation: Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources (such as tanning beds) is a significant risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma and non-melanoma types.
  8. Occupational and Environmental Exposures: Exposure to certain chemicals and substances in the workplace, such as asbestos, benzene, formaldehyde, and certain metals, can increase the risk of developing various cancers. Additionally, exposure to environmental factors, such as air pollution, radon gas, and certain pesticides, may contribute to cancer risk.
  9. Family History and Genetics: Some cancers have a hereditary component. Having a family history of certain cancers, such as breast, ovarian, colorectal, or prostate cancer, may increase an individual’s risk. Additionally, inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are associated with a higher risk of breast, ovarian, and other cancers.
  10. Infections: Certain chronic infections can increase the risk of developing specific types of cancer. For example, human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to cervical, anal, and some other cancers. Hepatitis B and C viruses increase the risk of liver cancer, and Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with stomach cancer.
  11. Hormonal Factors: Hormonal factors, such as early menstruation, late menopause, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with long-term use, may contribute to an increased risk of certain cancers, including breast and endometrial cancers.
  12. Previous Cancer or Pre-cancerous Conditions: Individuals who have had cancer in the past or certain pre-cancerous conditions, such as carcinoma in situ, have a higher risk of developing new cancers.
Symptoms to Look Out For
  1. Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss, especially when accompanied by a loss of appetite, can be an early indicator of certain types of cancer.
  2. Persistent Fatigue: Feeling tired or exhausted despite adequate rest and sleep may be a symptom of various types of cancer.
  3. Changes in Skin: Skin changes, such as new moles or changes in existing moles, sores that do not heal, or changes in the appearance of skin pigmentation, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
  4. Abnormal Bleeding: Unusual bleeding or discharge, such as blood in the stool or urine, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or bleeding from the nipples, should be promptly investigated.
  5. Persistent Pain: Ongoing pain that does not improve with time or treatment, particularly in the bones or persistent headaches, may indicate underlying cancer.
  6. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits: Persistent changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as prolonged constipation, diarrhea, or frequent urination, warrant medical evaluation.
  7. Lumps or Thickening: New lumps, bumps, or thickening in the breast, testicles, lymph nodes, or any other part of the body should be examined by a healthcare professional.
Helpful Tips for Cancer Prevention
  1. Tobacco Avoidance: Avoid all forms of tobacco, including smoking and smokeless tobacco products. If you smoke, seek help to quit, as it is the leading cause of preventable cancers.
  2. Healthy Diet: Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit the consumption of processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks.
  3. Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week. Include a combination of aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
  4. Sun Protection: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with a high SPF, seeking shade during peak hours, and avoiding tanning beds.
  5. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Limit the intake of alcohol, as excessive consumption is linked to various types of cancer. It is recommended to drink in moderation or avoid alcohol altogether.
  6. Regular Screening: Follow recommended guidelines for cancer screening tests, such as mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies, and prostate exams, based on your age, gender, and risk factors.

Don’t let Cancer control your life. Take charge of your health with Peermed Healthcare. Experience our unwavering commitment to exceptional care, personalized attention, and the expertise you deserve. Get your lab test done for R650, and cancer markers for females for only R750 and doctor consultation from R450. Medical aids are charged as per medical aid tariff. 

Female Cancer Screening Blood Tests Include:
  1. CA 199 (COLON)
  2. CEA
  3. CA 125 (OVERY)
  4. CA 153 (BREAST)
Male Cancer Screening Blood Tests Include:
  1. CA 199 (COLON)
  2. CEA
  3. TOTAL PSA
  4. B-HCG QUANTITATIVE

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