A few things to remember on this World Cancer Day. According to WHO, Cancer is a large group of diseases that can start in almost any organ or tissue of the body when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, go beyond their usual boundaries to invade adjoining parts of the body and/or spread to other organs.
What To Know
In Kenya, cancer is the 3rd leading cause of death after infectious and cardiovascular diseases.
There is a lot you can do to prevent. Among them, do not smoke. Exercise regularly. Eat right. That sounds almost cliche. But it is part of your arsenal in equipping yourself for better health.
Going for medical checkups should become a way of life. For instance, breast and cervical cancers if caught early can be treated.
Breast Cancer
Women are encouraged to do mammograms. This way, it is easier to treat before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. In Kenya, this is the most prevalent of cancers in women.
Cervical Cancer
During a Pap test, it is easy to find abnormal cells in the cervix.
Colorectal (Colon) Cancer
This is another type that can be treated if caught early. The only way to do so is by having screening tests that can help find precancerous polyps. If found, they can be removed before they turn into cancer in good time.
Kenya’s burden is worsened by the fact that a lot of the people do not test early. When they finally go to hospital, it is often too late to get treated.
It is World Cancer Day. Have you done your tests yet?
