Q & A

• Hormone therapy: Blocks or removes hormones that fuel certain cancers, like breast and prostate cancer
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer (Includes checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy)
• Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells; Can be external or internal (brachytherapy)
• Surgery: Removes cancerous tissue from the body and is often used for localized cancers.
• Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth and is usually less harmful to normal cells compared to chemotherapy.
• Stem cell transplant: Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells and is often used for blood-related cancers like leukemia.

These treatments can be used alone or in combination, depending on the patient's condition, to maximize effectiveness and improve outcomes.

• Environmental factors:
  • Chemical Exposures: Long-term exposure to harmful substances like asbestos.
  • Radiation: UV rays and high radiation levels can damage DNA.
  • Tobacco smoke: A leading cause, including second-hand smoke.
• Genetic factors:
  • Inherited mutations: Certain genes, like BRCA1/2, can increase cancer risk.
  • Spontaneous mutations: Random DNA changes during cell division.
• Lifestyle factors:
  • Diet: Poor diet choices can increase cancer risk.
  • Physical Inactivity: Linked to higher cancer risks.
  • Obesity: Associated with several types of cancer.
• Pathogens:
  • Bacteria: Helicobacter pylori can lead to stomach cancer.
  • Viruses: HPV and hepatitis B/C are linked to cervical and liver cancers.

Understanding these causes can guide preventive measures and reduce cancer risk.

If close relatives have had heart disease, particularly at a younger age, your likelihood of developing it may be higher. But remember, genetics are just one piece of the puzzle. You can offset many risks with lifestyle changes like regular exercise and routine preventive care.

Taking steps to improve your heart health can powerfully impact your overall well-being. The good news is that small, consistent changes can make a big difference.

• Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats like fish or nuts. Reduce salt, sugar and saturated fat intake to protect your heart.
• Get regular checkups: Work with your doctor to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol and other key indicators of heart health.
• Manage stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like yoga, deep breathing or meditation into your routine to support your heart and mental health.
• Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting is one of the best ways to improve your heart health and reduce risks.
• Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like walking or cycling, most days of the week. To make this habit sustainable, find activities you enjoy.

If you have risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes, you can still take healthy steps to protect your heart:

• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol intake: These habits can amplify risks but are reversible with changes.
• Eat healthily: Stick to heart-healthy foods that support your heart and limit processed foods.
• Follow your doctor’s advice: Take prescribed medications and attend follow-ups regularly.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Even small amounts of weight loss can improve your heart health.
• Stay physically active: Regular physical activity helps manage weight, blood sugar and blood pressure.

By being proactive and making healthy choices, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and lead a healthy life.

Recognizing the early signs of heart disease can be lifesaving. One of the most common symptoms is chest discomfort, which may feel like pressure, tightness or pain, particularly during physical activity or stress. Some people also experience shortness of breath, making it difficult to perform regular tasks or rest comfortably.

Swelling in the legs, ankles or feet might indicate poor circulation, while unusual fluttering or racing sensations in your chest, known as palpitations, could point to an irregular heartbeat. If you notice these symptoms, it's important that you seek medical attention immediately.

Heart disease affects both women and men, but the risks and symptoms can vary. Women are more likely to experience subtle symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea or pain in the jaw or back, making it crucial to stay attuned to less obvious warning signs. Hormonal changes, such as those during menopause, can increase a woman’s risk of heart disease, so practicing preventive measures earlier in life is important.

Men often exhibit more typical symptoms like chest pain or discomfort. They also tend to develop heart disease at a younger age than women. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, smoking and stress play significant roles in increasing men’s risk of heart problems.

Understanding personal risks, recognizing symptoms and committing to a healthy lifestyle are vital for both women and men. By working with your health care provider, you can take control of your heart health and reduce risks, paving the way for a healthier future.