Protect Yourself from Cancer

• I eat at least three servings of vegetables and at least 2 servings of fruit each day
• I eat at least six servings of whole grains or grain products each day
• I don't smoke
• I avoid secondhand smoke
• I use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 35, and wear protective clothing when I'm out in the sun for more than 15 minutes
• I'm familiar with the 7 warning signs of cancer
  • Change in bowel or bladder habits
  • A sore that won't heal
  • Unusual bleeding or discharge
  • Thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere in the body
  • Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing
  • Obvious change in wart or mole
  • Nagging cough or hoarseness
• I know my family medical history
• I exercise regularly
• I don't overeat on a regular basis
• I drink in moderation (not more than 1 or 2 drinks a day)
• I limit the amount of fat in my diet
• I give myself a breast exam at least once a month
• I follow my doctor's recommendation for periodic digital rectal exams
• I'm a woman over 50 and follow my doctor's advice for mammogram
• I've stopped using snuff or chewing tobacco
• I eat a well-balanced diet that includes protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and other important nutrients
• I regularly examine all of my skin for any new or developing lesions or irregular marks, using a full length mirror and a hand mirror in a brightly lit room
• I examine my mouth each month using a mirror to look for changes in my gums, lips, cheeks, tongue, and the back of my mouth
• I know what my cholesterol numbers are
• I'm over 50 and follow my doctor's advice on testing for blood in my stool
• I'm a man and examine my testicles for changes after a warm bath or shower at last once a month
• I don't ask for an X-ray if my doctor or dentist doesn't recommend it. I discuss the necessity of each x-ray with my doctor or dentist, and if I need one, I'll make sure X-ray shields will be used to protect other parts of my body
• I'm a woman and have discussed with my doctor keeping dose levels of estrogen used for birth control or to treat menopause symptoms as low as possible
• I follow health and safety rules and I wear correct clothing and use protective equipment at work

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