Cancer affects lots of people, about 1 in 2 of us might face it at some point. But the good news? Learning about it early can help us stay healthy and support our friends and family in the best way possible.
Show Up
for Cancer
We’re all about making cancer education positive and empowering.
Knowledge is power, and together we can make a difference in South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw.
Why should we talk about cancer?
Remember: We’re stronger together!
What is cancer?
Cancer happens when some of the cells in our body stop working the way they should.
Our bodies are made up of tiny building blocks called cells, like how a house is made of bricks.
Usually these cells grow, work, and know when to stop growing. But sometimes, some cells start to grow in a way that isn’t normal, and they don’t stop.
These cells can come together to form a lump called a ‘tumour’.
Not all lumps are bad, but some can make it harder for our bodies to work properly.
How can I
reduce my risks?
Here are some top tips on how you can keep healthy and reduce risks:
Eat lots of fruits, veg, and whole foods fuel your body right!
Get moving – aim for 60 minutes of exercise a day, like sports or dancing.
Say no to smoking and vaping – your lungs will thank you later.
Limit alcohol when you’re older, and protect your skin from too much sun.
Many cancers can be
treated successfully,
especially if spotted early.
Spotting the signs & symptoms of cancer
Many cancers can display signs and symptoms that can be spotted by others, such as:
However, there are symptoms that are more personal that only the person experiencing them may notice, such as:
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a cough that won’t go away,
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unexplained weight loss,
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a hoarse voice,
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or even loss of appetite.
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a swollen tummy,
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urgent need to wee or needing to go more often,
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a change in bowel movement.
If you notice a change in yourself or a friend or family member,
most times, it’s nothing serious, but checking is best!
Understanding
cancer treatments
When someone has cancer, doctors work to remove the cancer cells in their body. There are different ways to treat cancer, and the treatment a person gets depends on the type of cancer, where it is, and how much it has spread.
Some of the treatments for cancer are listed here:
• Surgery: Removing the cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Medicines that target and kill cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Using special rays to zap cancer.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting your body’s own defenses.
Treatments are getting better all the time, and many people go on to live full, happy lives.
