February 4 is World Cancer Day, and Dr. Huiming Yang, Medical Director, Screening, Population, Public and Indigenous Health in Calgary, says you're not completely helpless against the disease.

"45% of cancers are really due to factors under each individual's control, so every individual can do things to reduce their risk of developing cancer."

Dr. Yang said small lifestyle changes can greatly reduce your risk of contracting cancer.

"This would include quit smoking, be physically active, have a balanced diet, maintain a healthy body weight and reduce alcohol consumption."

Dr. Yang also emphasized the importance of regular screening.

"Regular screening for breast, colorectal and cervical cancer can effectively reduce people's risk of dying from those cancers."

According to Dr. Yang, early detection means cancer treatments can be more effective and less invasive.

 

Questions, comments or story ideas? Email us at news@discoverairdrie.com