C-Network shares lifestyle choices that can help prevent cancer

The survival rates for all cancers combined and for certain site-specific cancers have improved significantly since the 1970s, due, in part, to both earlier detection and advances in treatment. Survival rates markedly increased for cancers of the prostate, breast, colon, rectum, and for leukemia. With new treatment techniques, such as oral chemotherapy; and increased utilization of screening, there is hope for even greater improvements in the not-too-distant future. This good news on cancer trends was revealed by Dr. Marlowe Imperial of UP-PGH Medical Oncology during a lay forum for Cancer Crusaders, a patient support group at the Manila Doctors Hospital (MDH). Dr. Marlowe Imperial is a Chief Fellow of the Philippine General Hospital, and a highly skilled and certified Internal Medicine Specialist in the Philippines’ largest tertiary government hospital.

Dr. Imperial stressed that this positive development can be further enhanced with proper education and awareness on lifestyle choices that can largely contribute to cancer prevention. Tobacco use is a major preventable cause of death, particularly from lung cancer. With the release of the first Surgeon General’s report year on Tobacco and Health in 2004, there was a decline in per capita cigarette consumption in the United States. As a result of the cigarette smoking epidemic, lung cancer death rates showed a steady increase through 1990, then began to decline among men. The lung cancer death rate among US women, who began regular cigarette smoking later than men, has begun to plateau after increasing for many decades.

“Quitting can reduce a smoker’s risk of developing lung cancer. It is still highly advantageous and advisable for a smoker to quit, no matter how long he or she has smoked. The risk continues to decline gradually the more time a person has stopped smoking,” he said.

Another lifestyle choice that Dr. Imperial discussed is nutrition and regular exercise. “Research shows that the best formula for staving off another bout of cancer is proper nutrition combined with weight control and exercise.”

During the lecture, Dr. Marlowe presented strong evidence that a plant-based diet cuts the risk of cancer overall. “Many epidemiologic studies have shown that people who eat diets rich in fruits and vegetables and sparse in meat and animal fat have lower rates of some cancers, including lung, breast, colon and stomach cancers. Plant foods, on the other hand, contain antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lycopene, and vitamins A, C, and E, which protect the cells from free radicals that damage healthy cells and are linked to aging and disease.” Among the recommended dietary considerations that the doctor recommended are:

• Consult with a dietician.
• Eat a minimum of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables.
• Go for whole grains. Opt for high-fiber breads and cereals, including brown rice, and oats; avoid refined foods, such as donuts and white bread, and those high in sugar
• Choose lean protein. Stick to fish, poultry, and tofu, limiting red meat and processed meats;
• Keep dairy low fat. Select skim milk, low-fat yogurt, and reduced-fat cheeses
• Aim for a variety of foods. Create a balanced plate that is one-half cooked or raw vegetables, one-fourth lean protein (chicken, fish, lean meat, or dairy) and one-fourth whole grains;
• Eat fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines, and canned tuna at least twice a week. The fats in these fish are the “good” heart-healthy omega-3 fats
• Limit alcohol consumption. Alcohol has been linked to cancer risk. Men should have no more than two drinks a day; women should have no more than one drink;
• Eat foods high in vitamin D. These include salmon, sardines, fortified orange juice, milk, and fortified cereal. Research suggests that vitamin D, which also comes from sun exposure, prevents cancer and may decrease the risk of recurrence and improve survival.
• Food – not supplements – is the best source of vitamins and minerals. There is no evidence that dietary supplements provide the same anti-cancer benefits as fruits and vegetables, and some high-dose supplements may actually increase cancer risk.
• Be “mindful” when eating. Research suggests that we tend to eat more calories and food with fewer nutrients when we are watching TV, driving, or doing other activities.

Dr. Imperial also stressed the importance of exercise for both non-patient and cancer survivors. “For cancer survivors, the NCCN Cancer-Related Fatigue Guidelines advise starting slowly and progressing incrementally. It is important to discuss with your doctor the type of exercise you are considering to ensure it will be safe. Generally, the recommendation is at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a week or more. But more importantly, listen to your body; don’t exercise if you’re not feeling well or running a fever,” he advised.

The lay forum was initiated by the C-Network, in cooperation with MDH Chairperson of the Tumor Board and Adviser of the Cancer Crusaders Club Dr. Elsie Dancel.

Since its launch in 2004, the C-Network has become an active partner of the different anti-cancer groups like the Philippine Society of Oncology, the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology, the Department of Health and the Philippine Cancer Society. The C-Network has also worked closely with various cancer patient support groups in its campaign to share the latest information on cancer care and prevention.

Dr. Marlowe Imperial during the lecture.

Members of the Cancer Crusaders Club.