Health Tip: When a Loved One Has Cancer
If you have a family member or friend who has been diagnosed with cancer, you may be puzzled about how you can help.
The American Cancer Society offers these suggestions:
- Prepare meals to keep on hand, or deliver meals each day at certain times, so the person doesn't have to worry about what to eat.
- Help out with the kids by driving them to and from school, practices and other activities.
- Drive the loved one to and from doctor appointments.
- Fill in for him or her when not feeling well. Run errands, take care of chores, or just answer the phone.
- Research the disease so you can discuss what the person is going through.
Health Tip: Get Screened for Cancer
Early detection, by way of regular screening, is one of the best ways to beat cancer.
The American Cancer Society offers these guidelines for cancer screenings:
- Women, starting at age 40, should get an annual mammogram to screen for breast cancer. Breast exams should start at age 20. An annual exam is recommended at age 40. Before that, women at normal risk should be examined about every three years.
- Beginning at age 50, women and men need regular screening for colorectal cancer. People at an increased risk for colorectal cancer should be tested earlier.
- Women need regular Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer. Pap smears should be given within three years of starting intercourse, or by age 21, whichever is earlier.
- Men 50 and older should get the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal examination annually. Men at higher risk should begin testing at age 45.
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