February is National Cancer Prevention Month
Posted February 11, 2025

By Brandy Strub, Dietitian, Veterans Memorial Hospital
February is National Cancer Prevention Month and per the World Health Organization, 30%-50% of all cancer cases are preventable. You can decrease your risk of cancer by making the following healthy lifestyle choices:
- Quit smoking or chewing tobacco-Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) for assistance or talk to your Dr.
- Drink alcohol only in moderation, if at all.
- Stay physically active-get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity.
- Follow a healthy diet:
- Eat lots of fruits and vegetables-try to include one of each at every meal.
- Limit foods high in calories, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars.
- Limit processed and red meats-eat more fish and plant-based proteins such as legumes and nuts.
- Limit refined grains and choose more whole grains.
- Keep your weight at a healthy weight. If you’re not sure what this is….ask your medical provider and if you are not at a healthy weight, ask your provider for a referral to your local Dietitian.
- Don’t use tanning beds and protect yourself from the sun. Don’t go out from 10a.m-4p.m, stay in the shade, cover your skin or wear sunscreen.
- Get vaccinated to protect yourself from cancer causing infections, such as hepatitis and human papilloma virus (HPV).
- Get routine medical care and screenings. If you haven’t had one in a while………call your medical provider and schedule one today😊
For more information, please call Brandy Strub, Dietitian at Veterans Memorial Hospital or call your medical provider at the Waukon Clinic at 568-5530 or the Postville Clinic at 864-7221.
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