April recognizes testicular cancer, esophageal cancer and oral, head and neck cancers. Below are tips and ideas to promote health and wellbeing for yourself and your loved ones!
Testicular Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know that testicular cancer is the leading cause of cancer in men ages 15-35 [i]? How can you promote overall wellness, stay healthy during or after treatment, and take steps for prevention?
- Perform a testicular self-examination as outlined by the Cleveland Clinic monthly or encourage men you know over the age of 15 years to do so [ii].
- Incorporate a variety of food groups into your diet [iii]:
- Including fruits & vegetables in your diet can ensure that you are getting enough vitamins, minerals, and fiber. You can do this by aiming to fill half your plate with vegetables during most meals!
- Consuming whole grains is another way to obtain fiber, which can help promote regular bowel movements. Try using a whole grain alternative in place of refined grains when you are able to.
- Including an adequate amount of protein in your diet can help keep you strong and maintain a healthy weight. Try incorporating plant-based proteins into meals such as tofu, legumes or nuts.
Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month
Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that can be influenced by a variety of lifestyle, environmental and physical factors, as well as other factors [iv]. What are some lifestyle tips for esophageal health?
- If you drink alcohol, limit the amount of alcoholic drinks you consume [iv]. Try swapping an alcoholic beverage for a beverage such as infused water.
- Incorporate exercise and physical activity into your routine to maintain a healthy weight [iv].
- Find out more about the benefits of strength and cardio exercises here.
- Learn more about walking for exercise here.
- Get inspired with chair workouts that are easy to do at home here.
Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know that many head and neck cancers can be prevented [v]? Learn more about preventative tips for oral, head and neck cancers as well as suggestions for overall wellbeing and survivorship below.
- Limit processed foods in your diet such as foods high in sodium [vi]. Try purchasing fresh foods as well as frozen, canned or dried foods without added salt.
- Consume a diet filled with fruits and vegetables [vi]. Consider increasing your fruit and vegetable intake by adding additional vegetables to your favorite soup or by making a smoothie.
- Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation. Consuming alcohol is known to be a major risk factor of head and neck cancers [vi].
Learn more about testicular cancer, esophageal cancer and oral, head and neck cancer advocacy initiatives here.
References:
[i] “Step Up to the Mic for TC Awareness Month” Retrieved from: https://testicularcancersociety.org/blogs/testicular-cancer-advocacy/tcisnojoke-testicular-cancer-awareness-month
[ii] “Testicular Cancer: Prevention” Retrieved from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12183-testicular-cancer/prevention
[iii] “I have Testicular Cancer. What Should I Eat?” Retrieved from: https://pearlpoint.org/i-have-testicular-cancer-what-should-i-eat/
[iv] “Prevention and Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer” Retrieved from: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/esophageal/risk-factors
[v] “50 Facts about Oral, Head and Neck Cancer” Retrieved from: https://www.enthealth.org/be_ent_smart/50-facts-about-oral-head-and-neck-cancer/
[vi] “Prevention, Causes, and Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer” Retrieved from: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/head-neck/risk-prevention-screening
