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Don't use tobacco. If you do, quit. This is the single most important thing you can do to prevent cancer.
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Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Fruits and vegetables may lower your risk for some kinds of cancer.
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If you are a woman, age 40 or older, get a mammogram every one to two years.
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There is no upper age limit for the Pap test. Even women who have gone through menopause should have regular checkups, including a pelvic exam and a Pap test.
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Cancers of the colon and rectum are more likely to occur as people get older. Two tests can help find these cancers early: fecal occult blood test annually, and sigmoidoscopy every 3-5 years.
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Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, especially older men. Discuss with your doctor early detection tests and their benefits and drawbacks.
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Avoid too much sunlight; wear protective clothing; use sunscreen.
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Avoid unnecessary x-rays.
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If you do have cancer, find out what your treatment choices are and which are best for you. And before getting treatment, get a second opinion from another doctor.
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For more information about cancer, call Health On-Call at (800) 446-2255.