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Cancer is Not a Silent Sentence: What You Need to Know

By Desmond Yong•

In our communities, we often don't talk about cancer until it is 'too late'. But did you know that 1 in 3 cancers can be prevented, and many others can be cured if found early?

Health is our greatest wealth. Protecting ourselves doesn't always require expensive hospitals—it starts with the choices we make today.

1. Prevention is Better (and Cheaper) than Cure

Many cancers in Africa and Asia are linked to things we can change:

  • Tobacco & Smoking: The leading cause of lung and mouth cancer. Stopping today protects your lungs and your family’s.

  • Vaccinations: In our regions, many cancers are caused by infections.

    • The HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer (the #1 cancer killer for women in Sub-Saharan Africa).

    • The Hepatitis B vaccine protects your liver.

  • Watch the "Hidden" Sugars & Salts: Traditional diets are often healthy, but processed snacks and excess alcohol increase risk. Stick to the earth—eat more local fruits and vegetables.

2. Listen to Your Body (The Early Signs)

Don't wait for pain. Cancer often doesn't hurt in the beginning. See a local health worker if you notice:

  • A lump or thickening in the breast, neck, or underarm.

  • A sore that does not heal or a cough that lasts more than 3 weeks.

  • Changes in bathroom habits (blood in stool or urine).

  • Unexplained weight loss or extreme tiredness.

3. Breaking the Stigma

Cancer is not a curse, and it is not contagious. In many villages, people hide their illness because they are afraid of being outcasted. This fear leads to late-stage diagnosis.

  • Support your neighbors. A kind word or help with chores can give a patient the strength to finish their treatment.

  • Trust medicine over myths. While traditional herbs have their place, they cannot remove a tumor. Use the clinic for diagnosis.

The Goal: Early detection = Life saved. If you are over 40, or if you feel something "different" in your body, visit your nearest health center this week. Do it for yourself, and do it for those who love you.