Fight Cancer

Last week, we talked about all the brilliant colors of fall. October is also awash in another color, too. Pink is now everywhere to raise awareness of breast cancer.

Cancer is:
- prevalent. American Cancer Society's Lifetime Risk of Developing or Dying From Cancer estimates that we have roughly a 40% chance of developing cancer in our lifetime (men 43%, or a 1 in 2 chance; women 38%, or a 1 in 3 chance).
* NC ranks 23rd & our rate is slightly higher than the US (470.8 vs. 462.0 per 100,000) according to Centers for Disease Control data (2008-2012).
* Learn about local impact with our Community Assessments. There's a brief overview in the 2014 SOTCH. The 2011 Community Health Assessment offers much more detail (Morbidity & Mortality sections).

- complex. It can begin anywhere in the body. There are actually dozens of different types. In all types of cancer, the body’s cells divide & grow out of control. Cancerous cells can influence other cells, spread into surrounding tissues, & hide from or even manipulate the body's defenses. The National Cancer Institute's What is Cancer? explains more. Or, find out about Cancer Symptoms or Screenings at WebMD.

- influenced by healthy behaviors. The World Health Organization suggests that over 33% of cancers are preventable. The Mayo Clinic shares 7 Tips to Reduce Your Risk including being active, eating healthy, not using tobacco products, sun protection, etc. Finding cancer early also helps increase your survival & options.

Cancer will likely impact us or someone we care about. Here are some resources:
- National Cancer Institute's Coping With Cancer for Friends & Family
- Care.com's 10 Ways to Help a Friend With Cancer
- Mayo Clinic's Cancer Diagnosis: 11 Tips for Coping.