Fall 2005 - Memorial Hospital of South Bend

Risky Business
With just a few tweaks, cancer-promoting
habits can be transformed into a cancerpreventing
lifestyle. Here are a few
pointers from Rafat Ansari, M.D., FACP,
Director of Oncology Services at
Memorial Hospital.
COLON CANCER
High-Risk Habits: Grilled red meats are
high in fat and cholesterol and weaken the
immune system, and studies have shown
a link between red meat and colon cancer.
Risk-Lowering Tweaks: Instead of a
hamburger, try a veggie burger or a grilled
chicken sandwich.
LUNG CANCER
High-Risk Habits: As countless studies
have shown, smoking and exposure to
secondhand smoke are the primary causes
of lung cancer.
Risk-Lowering Tweaks: Smoking cessation
is the single most important step you
can take to decrease your lung cancer risk;
avoid secondhand smoke as well.
Ken Easley
considering the polyp has already been
removed. But if cancerous tissue has spread
to the wall of the colon or elsewhere in
the abdomen, surgery is recommended,
followed by further treatment options
if necessary.
According to the National Cancer
Institute, once prostate cancer has been
diagnosed, tests are performed to determine
whether cancer cells have spread
within the prostate or to other parts of
the body. Depending on the result, different
treatment options are discussed
with the patient.
A procedure being used more frequently
for a variety of different cancers,
including lung, prostate and breast cancers,
is intensity-modulated radiation treatment
(IMRT). “This procedure tailors the dose
of radiation to the individual,” Dr. Ansari
said. “It directs the dosage with greater
precision, minimizing side effects.”
Regardless of the success of a treatment,
Dr. Ansari urges patients to focus on
prevention and early detection. “We’ve
had remarkable advances in treatment,
but keep in mind that it’s more difficult
to overcome an advanced diagnosis,” he
said, reminding us that it’s crucial to be
vigilant about following cancer screening
guidelines and maintaining healthy
lifestyle habits. ■
BREAST CANCER
High-Risk Habits: “Gaining significant
weight after menopause places women at
a much higher risk for developing breast
cancer,” Dr. Ansari said.
Risk-Lowering Tweaks: To keep weight
down, avoid sugary sweets and foods high
in fat and calories yet lacking in nutrition.
Instead, try a bowl of fresh strawberries or
grapes or a handful of baby carrots.
SKIN CANCER
High-Risk Habits: Sunbathing and
tanning booths increase your exposure
to harmful ultraviolet rays.
Risk-Lowering Tweaks: Avoid sun
exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Cover up when outdoors, wearing UVprotective
sunglasses, a wide-brimmed
hat, a long-sleeved shirt and pants, or
at least a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.
And stay out of tanning booths.
www.qualityoflife.org
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