Cancer Prevention Action Week

Every year, millions of people all over the world are diagnosed with cancer, and millions more may die from cancer. And although a cure for various forms of cancer is still being pursued, one of the biggest factors in today’s world is the actions that can be taken to prevent cancer from happening – or at least detecting it early. 

Set some intention this year to participate in Cancer Prevention Action Week with activities that can be built into habits that will promote healthy lifestyles and possibly even prevent cancer!

History of Cancer Prevention Action Week

Cancer Prevention Action Week got its start through the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) with the purpose of raising awareness and drawing attention to the things people can do to actively protect themselves and their families from cancer. Wearing sun block, cutting out certain foods, stopping using tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and many other activities are recommended by doctors to help actively prevent cancer from occurring.

Each year, Cancer Prevention Action Week is scheduled to take place during this month with the hopes that more individuals, families, and communities will take action and create new habits that may help to prevent cancer. One important part of this week is building into a foundation of education for folks who may not be aware of the fact that some of their habits or lifestyle choices may be leading them down an unhealthy path.

Experts suggest that up to 40% of cancers may be preventable, so make a difference during this time by celebrating and raising awareness about Cancer Prevention Action Week!

How to Celebrate Cancer Prevention Action Week

Show some love to self, family, friends and the community by participating in and celebrating Cancer Prevention Action Week with some of these ideas:

Cut Back on Processed Meats

One of the largest ways to help prevent bowel cancer is to cut back on eating meats that have been processed. This includes deli meats, sausages, bacon, and other meats that are over-processed. In honor of Cancer Prevention Action Week, begin the habit of substituting these processed foods with fresh meats or plant-based protein products that can supply the needed nutrition without the high risk.

Stay Active

A few different cancers can be connected with inactivity, including colon cancer, breast cancer, and womb or endometrial cancer. This doesn’t mean it is necessary to start a high impact exercise routine, but it’s more about just getting off the couch! In celebration of Cancer Prevention Action Week, grab a friend and make a commitment to stay active with a brisk walk every day or some other fun activity that helps keep you moving.

Get Cancer Screening Tests

From getting moles looked at to having a regular mammogram, cancer screening tests are an important part of being a healthy adult. Other cancers that can be screened for include colorectal cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and more. In honor of Cancer Prevention Action Week, everyone can make an appointment with their general practitioner to find out what kind of cancers they need to be screened for, related to their lifestyle, gender, family history and more.