Cancer survivors day: Dr Nyongesa shares tips to stay healthy

National Cancer Survivors Day is observed every year on June 4 to celebrate courageous souls who fought to defeat cancer.

People around the world join together to recognize cancer survivors, and to raise awareness of the challenges of cancer survivorship.

According to the WHO, Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, or nearly one in six deaths.

Dr Catherine Nyongesa from Texas Cancer Center says that cancer survivors can adopt a healthy lifestyle and give priority to self-care to lead their life in a healthy way.

Here is what Nyongesa advises cancer survivors;

Avoid alcohol and cigarettes

Cancer survivors must take good care of their health by avoiding cigarettes and alcohol. Research shows that smoking increases the risk of death and it may also increase the risk of cancer recurrence.

Maintain a healthy weight

Embrace healthy weight because this is an important part of wellness. Obesity increases the risk of cancer recurrence.

Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet can help you cope better and recover faster. This could improve your chances of survival. Also, a balanced diet helps your immune system to stay strong.

Stay connected to friends and relatives

Your relatives and friends are your support system. They hold your hand and give you the energy to keep on moving and fighting cancer.

Go for checkups

Checkups will look for changes in your health or any problems that may occur due to your cancer treatment.

Stay physically active

Regular activity improves overall health, boosts energy and mobility and helps with anxiety. Plus, it may lower the risk of recurrence and improve survival after cancer.