ILLUSTRATIONS: RAFAEL LOPEZ
An ounce of prevention
Hit the treadmill: And skip more desserts, too. Two recent reports by the American Cancer Society (ACS) suggest that men who maintain a healthy weight are less likely than overweight men to develop prostate cancer and die from it. To achieve and maintain a healthy weight, the ACS experts suggest watching your caloric consumption and engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activities five days a week.
Strike preemptively against a common cancer: Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, but experts agree it is indeed preventable. Regular screenings can detect colon polyps before they ever develop into cancer, and removing these growths can prevent the disease. Lifestyle choices may also reduce risk, including regular exercise, a diet high in fiber, fruits and vegetables, and moderating alcohol intake.
Choose your cover: Are you a sun worshipper? Warmer weather may lure you outdoors, but be sure to protect your skin. The message bears repeating: the sun’s ultraviolet rays may cause skin to wrinkle, develop age spots and, even worse, lead to skin cancer. To defend against the harmful rays, regularly apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before going outdoors and limit exposure to the sun — particularly between the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., when rays are strongest.