Look Who it Was Random video

Decreasing Cancer Risk

479 views · Published 1 November 2015 · 1:36 · Indexed 31 October 2026

Channel: Lee Health · 2015 · Science & Technology

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The question’s been asked time and time again: Can cancer be prevented? In some areas, experts believe we can lower our risk by eliminating high-risk behaviors; the number one being tobacco.
“We’ve known for years and years that there’s a direct link there, obviously with lung cancer, with GI cancers, with prostate, bladder cancers,” says Dr. Sal Lacagnina, who is the vice president of health and wellness with Lee Memorial Health System. 
Another well-known lifestyle link is between sun exposure and skin cancer. Because the majority of cases are not life-threatening, people may underestimate the threat.
“Melanomas definitely cause metastatic disease and can kill people, I mean they are really very aggressive cancers,” says Dr. Lacagnina. 
Studies find a comparatively small number of cancers are genetic in nature when compared to the larger percentage, which are influenced by behaviors. The CDC states two-thirds of cancers are preventable. Finding factors, including obesity and excess hormones, are increasing risk of disease. 

“Hormones make a tremendous impact on breast cancer as well as prostate and colon cancer,” says Dr. Lacagnina. 
Cervical and many oral cancers are linked to the human papillomavirus; that risk may be lessened by the HPV vaccine. Colorectal cancers may be avoided by proactive use of colonoscopy. Good choices may help people avoid a dreadful diagnosis.
“Make sure that you’re buying healthy food and that your lifestyle behaviors are healthy, avoiding cigarettes and exercising,” says Dr. Lacagnina. 

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Lee Memorial Health System in Fort Myers, FL is the largest network of medical care facilities in Southwest Florida and is highly respected for its expertise, innovation and quality of care. For nearly a century, we’ve been providing our community with everything from primary care treatment to highly specialized care services and robotic assisted surgeries.

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