This month we are bringing awareness to cancer, being that it is also Breast Cancer Awareness month! Here are the Nevada OPHIE office we have a team of people dedicated to the data collection of cancer through the Nevada Central Cancer Registry (NCCR). The purpose of this program is to use the data to evaluate the appropriateness of measures for the prevention and control of cancer in Nevada. There is a lot of misinformation on the Internet these days, so it is our hope to share a few key facts about cancer and how you can take some steps in prevention and early detection. How can I protect against and prevent cancer myself?
Some cancers, such as skin cancer, can be prevented with protective measures. Even though summer is coming to an end, don't put away that sunscreen. Out on the mountain slopes while snowboarding, skiing, or sledding it is important to put sunscreen on exposed skin such as your face. UV rays can reflect up from the snow adding to the UV coming down directly above you. Being at an increased altitude also plays a factor into the likelihood of burning while shreddin the gnar.
Breast cancer and testicular cancers are two cancers that you can try to detect early on your own. Women of all ages are encouraged to perform self-exams at least once a month to be familiar with how your breasts look and feel so that you can alert a health care professional if there are any changes. It's important to note that men can also get breast cancer as well. More than 200,000 cases of breast cancer occur in the United States every year. In the shower, in front of a mirror, or lying down, using the pads of your fingers, move from the outside to the center, examining the entire breast feeling for lumps, thickening of tissue, or hardened knots. Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in men ages 15-35. Every year in the United States, more than 9,000 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer. Self-examination is crucial and should be performed at least monthly so that if you notice a change, you can contact a health care professional for further examination. For men, preferably standing in front of a mirror if possible, check both testicles for swelling. Additionally, examine the testicles with your thumb and fingers noticing for any irregularities on the surface or tissue.
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AuthorOPHIE records and analyzes data from disease investigations, identifies risk factors, and provides education on disease prevention in Nevada. Archives
November 2018
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