8 takeaways from cancer awareness session at Khaleej Times

The 'C' word can be scary but awareness can help in the prevention of cancer.

To celebrate International Women's Day and honour womanhood, Khaleej Times held a wellness camp on breast and cervical cancer for its employees.
Yes, the risk of developing breast cancer increases with age but it is crucial to be breast aware at all ages. It was with this intention that the publishing house hosted a session at its headquarters today.  
Early detection and self-examination were the buzz word at the session. Knowing the fatality rate of the cancer cases, it is still surprising that many educated women still ignore the essential tests like Pap Smear (once every three years) and self-examination of their breasts (every month). Early detection of cancer can make the difference between life and death.
Dr Lakshmi Archana Kumar, Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Thumbay Hospital stressed on lifestyle changes as an increasing cause of cancer in today's time. "With long working hours, we often ignore our diet and resort to consuming junk. We need to adapt a healthy diet and lifestyle, add exercise to our lives and seek medical assistance if anything is amiss." Keep a check on any changes in their body like a sudden dip in weight, appetite etc. as they can be underlying symptoms.
The expert gynecologist ended on an inspiring note, "We woman was strong and overcome anything, let alone it be cancer. So, be positive and stay healthy."
8 takeaways to ponder on:
1. No menopause till the age of 55 can be a sign of breast or cervical cancer.
2. Women between the ages of 45-55 years should get an annual mammogram.
3. Intake of sugary soft drinks or aerated drinks may increase the risk of breast cancer.
4. Any changes in your breast shape, tissue, dimpling of the skin, colour or itchiness is reason enough to go for a mammogram.
5. Get a Pap Smear done every three years to make sure you haven't developed cervical cancer.
6. Any form of cancer can be hereditary; especially women who inherit BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation from their mothers are at an increased risk of breast, cervical and ovarian cancer.
7. Pregnancy after 30 can increase your risk of developing breast cancer.
8. Men are at an increasing risk of breast cancer.
The session was broadcasted live on Khaleej Times' Facebook Page and was well received by the audience tuning in. The videos received around 25,000 views within the first hour and much appreciated.  
If you missed the videos, watch them below:
  

• Dubai