Cancer Prevention & Control

Many factors can affect your risk for cancer—everything from what you eat and drink to how you live and where you work.  Many of the risks factors for cancer can be prevented or controlled.  For example:

• Tobacco and Cancer
  Smoking is the most preventable cause of death in our society.  Check out Steps to a Healthier Cleveland for more information about tobacco use and exposure, including resources to help you or a loved one quit smoking.
  
  
• Sun Safety
  The sun’s UV rays cause the vast majority of skin cancers including melanoma, which can be life-threatening.  Visit the American Cancer Society’s website to learn who’s at high risk and how to protect yourself.
  
  
• Nutrition and Physical Activity
  Healthy eating and active living can reduce your risk of cancer.
  
  
• HPV and Cervical Cancer
  One of the best and most proven steps that a woman can take to prevent a cancer is to have a Pap test.  Learn more about Women’s Health Services offered by the Cleveland Department of Public Health.
  
  
• Environmental Carcinogens
  The American Cancer Society’s website has information about environmental factors (such as smoking, diet, sun exposure, and infectious diseases, as well as chemicals and radiation in our homes and workplaces) that can increase your risk for cancer.

Resources for learning more about cancer:

• Cancer Prevention and Control – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• American Cancer Society
• National Cancer Institute