- Be a non-smoker and avoid second-hand smoke.
- Eat 5 to 10 servings of vegetables and fruit a day. Choose high fibre, lower fat foods. If you drink alcohol, limit your intake to 1 to 2 drinks a day.
- Be physically active on a regular basis - this will also help you maintain a healthy body weight.
- Protect yourself and your family from the sun. Reduce sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Check your skin regularly and report any changes to your doctor.
- Follow cancer screening guidelines. For women, discuss mammograms, Pap tests, and breast exams with a health professional. For men, discuss testicular exams and prostate screening with a health professional. Both men and women should also discuss screening for colon and rectal cancers.
- Visit your doctor or dentist if you notice a change in your normal state of health.
- Follow health and safety instructions both at home and at work when using, storing and disposing of hazardous materials.
Be Aware of Signs and Symptoms
If you have a concern or notice a change in your normal state of health, you should discuss it with your healthcare provider. Most often, symptoms we experience are not due to cancer. A visit with your health care provider will ensure that your concern is addressed appropriately. The Canadian Cancer Society has detailed information about symptoms of the most common cancers.