World Cancer Day: Take these steps to keep it at bay

Cancer is a formidable foe here, with up to 33000 new cases diagnosed every year according to the Uganda Cancer Institute.

The commonest types in the country include Cervical Cancer, Prostate cancer, Breast Cancer, Kaposis sarcoma, Burkitt’s lymphoma, lung cancer, skin cancer, Cancer of the bone, cancer of the eye, Cancer of the colon, and cancer of the blood.

But did you know there are things you can do right now to give it a run for its money? Let's dive into some easy ways you can lower your risk of getting tangled up with cancer.

Watch What's on Your Plate

First things first – what we munch on matters! Loading up on colourful fruits and veggies like they're going out of style can help keep the big C at bay. Aim for a rainbow on your plate, and your body will thank you. Foods high in fibre, like whole grains and beans, are also superheroes in the fight against cancer. Cut down on the processed goodies, and say hello to a healthier you.

Get Those Limbs Moving 

Alright, we get it – hitting the gym every day might not be everyone's cup of tea. But here's the deal: a bit of movement goes a long way. Whether it's dancing in your living room or taking a stroll in the park, find what gets you grooving. Regular exercise isn't just good for your waistline; it's a powerhouse when it comes to kicking cancer to the curb. So, let's get those bodies moving, shall we?

Quit the Smoke Show 

No beating around the bush here – tobacco is bad news. If you're puffing away, it's time to kick that habit to the curb. Smoking is like rolling out the red carpet for cancer, especially lung cancer. Plus, let's not forget about those secondhand smoke vibes – not cool for you or those around you. Your lungs will thank you, and so will the people who love breathing clean air.

 Sip Smartly 

Cheers to water – the unsung hero of health! Staying hydrated is crucial, and swapping out sugary drinks for H2O is a game-changer. Limiting alcohol intake is another wise move. Too much booze can throw a party cancer loves to crash, so let's not give it a reason to show up.

Sun Smarts 

Our beautiful African sun is no joke, but too much of it without protection can be risky business. Slap on that sunscreen, wear your shades, and throw on a hat. Skin cancer is real, and prevention starts with a dollop of sunscreen and some stylish shades. Look good and stay safe – it's a win-win!

Know Your Body 

Your body is like a personal detective when it comes to health. Pay attention to any changes, weird bumps, or unusual pains. Regular check-ups with your doctor are like having a sidekick in this crime-fighting mission. The earlier you catch any suspicious activity, the better chance you have at nipping it in the bud.

So, there you have it – six simple steps to give cancer a run for its money. Remember, prevention is the name of the game, and each of us has the power to be the MVP of our health. Stay tuned for more health hacks and keep rocking that wellness journey!

Also if you can there are a number of activities taking place around the country through this cancer month. Follow updates from the Ministry of Health’s social media platforms to see where you can chime in.

Remember, it's all about living your best life – cancer-free!

This content was created with the help of an AI model and verified by the writer