THINGS YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT CANCER

If you are a smoker, make the effort to quit. If you are not a smoker, don't start. Avoid exposure to other people's smoke. Know the seven warning signs of cancer and see your physician if you observe one of them. Don't overeat, drink too much alcohol or eat too many fatty foods. Instead, eat more whole grains, cereal, bread, pasta, fresh fruit and fresh or steamed vegetables – especially broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts. Keep your intake of lean meat, skinless poultry or fish to no more than 6 ounces per day.    Exercise. A 30-minute walk each day is one of the simplest ways to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Know your family's medical history and pay attention to a possibly inherited disposition toward certain cancers. Avoid getting a tan. If your skin will be exposed to the sun for more than 15 minutes, use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. If you are a woman over 20, examine your breasts for lumps or changes at least once a month. If you are a woman over 40, follow your physician's advice for mammograms. If you are a man or woman over 40, follow your physician's recommendations for digital rectal exams. Follow your employer's policies for limiting exposure to harmful chemicals in the workplace. Always wear protective equipment when indicated, know what to do if there is a spill or accidental exposure, and report any hazardous conditions to your supervisor or safety committee representative.

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