February is National Cancer Prevention Month

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.