Preventing Cancer is Possible

In February, World Cancer Day 2/4 raises awareness about the importance of your decisions and actions to achieve a better quality of life in the short and long term.

At Horiens, as a company in the risk and insurance market, we understand how essential it is to mitigate risks and take care of what matters, such as health, which is why we always encourage prevention.

And cancer prevention is one of the most studied topics today. No wonder: the disease is one of the leading causes of death in the world.

A Brazilian study published in the scientific journal The Lancet Regional Health – Americas showed that cancer is gradually becoming the leading cause of death in the country, surpassing cardiovascular diseases in many cities.

Cancer: Genetics or Lifestyle?

When it comes to a serious disease like cancer, the answers are not simple and the cause is usually multifactorial.

However, what is known today is that non-hereditary cancer is the most common, and more and more studies and research have proven that environmental and lifestyle factors have a significant impact on the onset of the disease.

The maxim “genetics is not destiny” has proven true in the vast majority of cases.

If Cancer is Preventable, What to Do?

· Eliminate any type of cigarette from your life

Tobacco use is associated with about 15 types of cancer. This also applies to electronic cigarettes, including nicotine-free versions, which contain unlabeled substances, making it impossible to know the exact composition of the product. Another problem associated with tobacco is that passive smokers (those exposed to cigarette smoke) can have up to a 30% higher risk of developing lung cancer.

· Minimize alcohol consumption

Scientific evidence has shown that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption. When we drink alcoholic beverages, the liver metabolizes ethanol and converts it into acetaldehyde, which is toxic to the body and carcinogenic, causing DNA damage. Therefore, the lower the alcohol consumption, the lower the cancer risk.

· Keep your body active and healthy

Excess body fat causes a state of chronic inflammation in the body, increasing the chances of developing diseases such as cancer. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight promote hormonal balance and strengthen the body’s defenses, among other benefits.

· Sun is good, but be careful with high exposure

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is part of the natural energy produced by the sun, but it is proven to be carcinogenic. Reducing exposure to solar radiation without protection and avoiding artificial tanning devices, which are artificial sources of UV rays, is essential to avoid damaging skin cells.

· Get vaccinated

Chronic infections are responsible for about 16% of cancers worldwide. Vaccines against Hepatitis B virus and human papillomavirus (HPV) are essential against liver and cervical cancer.

Attention to Screening Exams

If detected early, most cancers are treatable, with high cure rates.

Check out the main exams that help monitor your health: · Breast cancer: women over 40 should have a mammogram annually. · Cervical cancer: the Pap smear should be performed by women over 25 or after the onset of sexual activity. · Colorectal cancer: recent guidelines indicate a colonoscopy around the ages of 45 to 50. · Prostate cancer: PSA tests and digital rectal exams are recommended for men over 50. · Skin cancer: dermoscopy is a non-invasive exam performed during a dermatological consultation and allows the evaluation of lesions on the skin, nails, and hair.

These exams are recommended according to age group and family history. Always consult the healthcare professional who follows you.

Orange February and Leukemia Awareness

Leukemia is a type of cancer that causes accelerated and abnormal growth in the blood cells responsible for the body’s defense, the leukocytes. Early diagnosis and treatment increase the chances of cure.

Symptoms such as anemia, tiredness and fatigue, decreased immunity, low platelet count, infection, fever, bruising, and spontaneous bleeding are warning signs.

Bone marrow donation is a relevant pillar of treatment for many cases of leukemia. To become a donor, you need to: · Be between 18 and 55 years old · Be in good general health · Not have infectious or disabling diseases · Not have neoplastic, hematological, or autoimmune diseases

Click here to check questions and answers about bone marrow donation.

Make conscious decisions and stay up to date with your health!