Stand Up 2 Cancer

I’m a little late in the day to recognize what an important day it is.  Today, February 4th is World Cancer Day, a day that brings global recognition to cancer as well as awareness to everyone, despite their relationship or affiliation to cancer.  It is wildly important to ensure that you and your loved ones are “in the know” about the disease, as well as get screened, know your family history and most importantly listen to your body.  Cancer, although it’s a touchy subject, is something that each and every person has to stand up to.  On that note, happy World Cancer Day- may you all stay happy and healthy!

Here are some myths about cancer, please read and think about each area as it pertains to you.  If nothing else, it will make you think twice about the disease and how it may effect you or someone you love.

Myth 1: We don’t need to talk about cancer.

Truth: While cancer can be a difficult topic to address, particularly in some cultures and settings, dealing with the disease openly can improve outcomes at an individual, community and policy level. The American Cancer Society has lots of pointers for talking about cancer, whether it’s with friends and family, your doctor, or others.

Myth 2: Cancer… There are no signs or symptoms.

Truth: For many cancers, there are warning signs and symptoms and the benefits of early detection are indisputable.

Myth 3: There is nothing I can do about cancer.

Truth: There is a lot that can be done at an individual, community and policy level, and with the right strategies, a third of the most common cancers can be prevented, according to the UICC. Avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy body weight, eating right and getting enough exercise, and getting appropriate cancer screening tests can all make a significant difference.

Myth 4: I don’t have the right to cancer care.

Truth: All people have the right to access proven and effective cancer treatments and services on equal terms, and without suffering hardship as a consequence. The American Cancer Society is committed to fighting cancer worldwide.

Cancer represents over 100 diseases and is basically abnormal cells that have grown out of control. Half of all men and one-third of all women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. The cancer mortality rates for African Americans is higher than any other group of people.  These are the facts. So since this disease affects our whole community, we need to take detection and prevention very seriously. And while the number of cancer cases is very alarming, the number of people surviving cancer today gives us what we need to know that progress is being made.  The American Cancer Society, one of the largest health-based organization in the world and second largest fund:

Show your support for World Cancer Day by turning your Facebook and Twitter profile pictures purple, and Chevrolet will donate $1 to the American Cancer Society, up to $1 million. You can also “like” World Cancer Day on Facebook.  Purple is the color for all cancer awareness, so help spread the Power of Purple!er of cancer research next to the U.S.. government, tells us that sixty years ago, 1 out of 3 people diagnosed with cancer survived. Today 2 out of 3 will survive.  It’s time to finish the fight.

Reference:  http://michronicleonline.com/2014/02/04/world-cancer-day-2014-what-you-should-know/

Love,

Britt x