Recognizing Holistic Needs During National Cancer Prevention Month

Each year, communities and medical professionals across the United States unite to spread awareness of National Cancer Prevention Month in February. Living with cancer comes with various emotional and physical trials, many of which may affect not only the individual but their family and friends. While cancer can be a challenging experience, there may be steps to prevent it or reduce challenging symptoms. However, speaking to your doctor before trying a holistic healing or prevention method can be crucial. 

National Cancer Prevention Month every February

February is about spreading hope and practical advice on reducing cancer risk. However, cancer prevention extends beyond the physical. Stress and other mental health challenges could play a role in the development and progression of cancer. Strategies to fight cancer encompass lifestyle changes, nutritional choices, and regular screenings. Learning about National Cancer Prevention Month and how to prevent cancer and live a healthier and more holistic life can be vital when considering your healthcare choices. 

The goal of National Cancer Prevention Month

National Cancer Prevention Month sets a clear goal each February: To raise awareness about cancer and highlight ways to reduce its impact. This month is dedicated to educating people on the importance of cancer prevention and promoting habits that may decrease the incidence of cancer.

Goals of National Cancer Prevention Month each February

• Cancer awareness: February is a period to inform the public about risk factors, early detection, and preventive techniques. 
• Preventive measures: Activities and campaigns launched during this month encourage lifestyle changes, such as committing to a healthy diet, regularly exercising, and avoiding tobacco and excessive sun exposure.
• Research and support: February also brings attention to supporting ongoing research and legislation to support those with cancer more effectively.

Certain cancers may be preventable, and everyone can take steps to lower their cancer risk. Cancer Prevention Month reminds individuals that through appropriate choices and proactive measures, individuals have the power to influence their overall health.

What causes cancer? 

Cancer develops due to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. These cells can form tumors, which may invade different body parts and spread to other organs through metastasis. Certain cancers, such as blood cancers like leukemia, do not form solid tumors but crowd out healthy cells in the blood-forming bone marrow.

Factors increasing the risk of several cancers

The exact cause of abnormal cell growth is often not clear, but certain factors are known to increase the risk of developing cancer, including but not limited to the following: 

• Cigarette smoking: Cigarette smoking and secondhand smoke can introduce harmful chemicals into the lungs, which may increase the risk of lung cancer as well as head, neck, bladder, and pancreas cancers.
• Occupational exposure: Asbestos, arsenic, and diesel exhaust exposure may increase cancer risk.
• Excess body weight: Physical inactivity may contribute to weight gain, which can sometimes increase the risk of several cancers, including breast, colon, and kidney cancers. A healthy weight can limit these risks. 
• Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol is associated with an increased risk of cancers like breast, liver, esophagus, throat, and mouth cancer.
• Excessive exposure to sunlight: Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun may lead to skin cancer.
• Certain health conditions: Infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) may increase the risk of cancers, particularly cervical cancer.
• Genetic predisposition: Inherited genetic mutations can significantly increase the risk of certain types of cancer.

Knowing the potential risk factors for cancer can help individuals make healthy lifestyle choices or seek medical advice to potentially decrease their risk of developing cancer. Although some factors, like genetics, are not controllable, others, like smoking, can be managed. 

Holistic strategies for cancer prevention

Physical health isn’t only addressed in clinics; You can also make healthy choices at home. A holistic approach to health may include a balanced lifestyle, diet, exercise, and stress management. 

Before using holistic products like vitamins, supplements, or procedures, consult your primary care provider or specialist for advice, as some holistic “cancer treatments” are unhealthy or dangerous. The following practices involve lifestyle changes, which can be healthy ways to prevent cancer and other health conditions. 

Maintaining a healthy diet 

A healthy diet may support overall health and potentially reduce cancer risk. Small dietary changes, such as increasing fruit and vegetable intake and reducing processed foods, may assist you in this process. 

Exercising regularly

Regular exercise may reduce the risk of different cancers. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two days.

Avoiding risky behaviors

Minimizing exposure to risky behaviors can be an active step in preventing cancer. For example, avoid tobacco, limit alcohol consumption, practice safe sex, and stay clear of needles shared for drug use. Individuals who avoid tobacco or decide to quit smoking may dramatically reduce their risk of several types of cancer.

Protecting yourself from the sun

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning beds significantly increases the risk of skin cancer, the most common type of cancer. Protect yourself by wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and covering exposed skin with clothing and hats.

Getting regular health screenings

Early detection of cancer can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. Regular health screenings, such as mammograms, pap smears, skin checks, and colonoscopies, depending on age and risk factors, can aid in early detection and prevention.

Healthy sleep habits

Adequate and quality sleep can be a crucial part of overall health maintenance. Poor sleep or sleep disorders can affect hormone levels and immune function, which may influence cancer risk. 

Mind-body wellness

Reducing exposure to toxins

Reducing exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides, industrial chemicals, and air pollution may play a role in cancer prevention.

Considering other methods 

The above strategies may be part of a holistic approach to cancer prevention, yet they are not the only ways to reduce cancer risk. Reducing radiation exposure, vaccinating, and limiting alcohol consumption contribute to a comprehensive cancer prevention plan.

The impact of mental health on cancer prevention

Taking care of your mental health might also help you prevent cancer. Stress management techniques can reduce worry or anxiety surrounding cancer risk. However, if you’re stressed, it can be challenging to stick to cancer prevention practices. For example, you might not get regular check-ups or start partaking in unhealthy lifestyle habits. 

Emotional well-being can be crucial. You may be more likely to follow healthy lifestyle tips when you're in a good mood. Mental resilience can guide you through difficult moments and remind you to keep up with health habits like eating well, exercising, not smoking, and not drinking too much alcohol. Cancer research has shown that when people are upset or stressed, they're less likely to take steps to better their lives in ways that may prevent the risk of cancer.  

Mental health concerns after cancer diagnosis

Some people may experience mental health challenges after a cancer diagnosis, including mental illnesses like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions can make it challenging to look after your health. For this reason, it may be crucial to reach out for mental health support, as these conditions can be treatable. Getting help from therapists and having a support network may help you stay in a positive mindset when preventing or fighting cancer. 

Incorporating therapy into cancer prevention

Including therapy in your cancer prevention strategies may help you manage the psychological aspects and build coping skills to cope with cancer risks. Therapy also provides emotional support to manage the stress and anxiety that may come with concerns about cancer. 

Therapy provides individuals with coping strategies like mindfulness, stress management, and problem-solving. These strategies can reduce stress and empower individuals to take proactive steps in preventing cancer. Therapists can also assist individuals in overcoming fears or misconceptions and encourage them to participate in prevention and early detection. 

Therapists provide valuable support that promotes mental resilience and has been linked to improved health outcomes, as seen in a study where mental health treatment improved outcomes for veterans with lung cancer.

Alternative support options

In-person therapy may not be accessible for everyone. Some people may face barriers such as financial challenges, distance, or a lack of therapists in their area. In these cases, it may be helpful to try online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp. 

The convenience and flexibility of online therapy may lower the barriers to seeking help. For individuals seeking mental health support, online therapy offers a matching system to match clients with a therapist who meets their preferences, needs, and location. The accessibility of online therapy can ensure consistent support through weekly phone, video, or live chat sessions and the option to message your therapist whenever you need to, receiving a response when they are available. 

Online therapy platforms have made it easier for individuals to find the right match in a licensed therapist and receive the personalized support they need. Studies show that 71% of online therapy clients find it more effective than face-to-face methods, and 80% find it more convenient.