I would like to prevent cancer.

	Asked by joe94115 (Male; 33; history of cancer on the the paternal side of my family. ) on Wed 17, Feb 2010 04:52pm for $9.00:
	What are steps I can take to prevent cancer? I have a history of lung and testicular cancer in my family.
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	Answer by bobby s, md (oncologist) on Thu 18, Feb 2010 04:37pm: Hi, There are no proven methods to prevent cancer. There are studies ongoing in certain specific settings (like giving certain hormones, drugs or vitamins) to try and prevent cancer occurrence or recurrence). Doctors call this "chemoprevention"; and it is not a validated method to prevent cancer. Another approach is to try and detect cancer early. Doctors call this "Cancer screening" and perform certain tests (like mammograms, pap smears, PSA levels) on healthy people to try and detect cancer at an early (and hopefully curable) stage. However, for lung cancer and for testicular cancer, there are no proven beneficial screening methods. You have a family history of lung cancer and testicular cancer. There are perhaps no specific drugs or tests that can be scientifically recommended at this time, but definitely there are many steps that you can take to reduce your chances of cancer. First of all, never smoke, and also avoid second-hand (passive) smoke. Other steps include limiting alcohol intake, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, etc. There is some interesting emerging data that certain drugs (aspirin, cholesterol-lowering drugs, bisphosphonates etc) may be associated with lower risk of some cancers, but it is not validated yet. So please relax, maintain a low-stress and healthy lifestyle, and keep yourself educated about health matters. And dont worry too much about this topic. All the best, and God Bless! Thank you for using our service.  If you are satisfied with the answer or if you want a detailed answer for your question, please make a donation and request for further clarifications.  Our oncologists will provide an elaborate answer for your clarification.   Please make a donation by clicking the button below. You may donate using funds from your PayPal account or Credit Card. Please rate my answer (select the stars below, no need to log in.)
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