CentraState - Healthy Directions

Are You at Greater Risk for CANCER? BY CRISTINA IGNACIO, MD Even with the remarkable inroads we've made in cancer prevention and detection over the years, it still seems that every day we hear about someone receiving a cancer diagnosis. It doesn't seem to add up. The good news is that we are more likely to survive cancer and go on to enjoy a high quality of life than at any other time in history. Today there are about 14.5 million cancer survivors in the United States, including friends and family in your own life, no doubt. Many are surprised to learn they are empowered to minimize many factors that cause cancer and make it more difficult for cancer to return. Unfortunately, not all cancers are preventable. THE "BIG FOUR" There are four main contributors to cancer development that account for the majority of cases. Some of these risks can be avoided, but others cannot: • Age • Obesity • Smoking and tobacco use • Family history With this said, the disease can also inexplicably strike younger people who do not have a family history, don't smoke and are not overweight. Additional issues can also promote the development of cancerous cells. So how can you protect yourself and those you care about? Take this simple quiz to discover additional biological and environmental dangers that could elevate your personal health risk: DO THESE ADDITIONAL DANGERS APPLY TO YOU? Have you been overexposed to ultraviolet radiation? Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and still the most common. Rates have continued to increase in the U.S. every year since 2001, despite widespread efforts advising people to avoid ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, sun lamps and tanning booths. Have you been diagnosed with certain infections or viruses such as HPV? Some viruses and infections can cause normal cells to become abnormal. In most cases, the body fights off the infection naturally and infected cells go back to normal. But in some instances, such as the increasingly common human papillomavirus (HPV), these cellular changes can eventually morph into cancer cells, even several years after the initial infection. We recommend everyone age 11 or 12 have the HPV vaccine. Have you been exposed to radiation and other toxic environmental factors? Air pollution, asbestos, radon and other chemicals at home and in the workplace can eventually alter cells in some people, which may develop (over time) into malignant tumors. KNOWING YOUR RISK HELPS YOU AND YOUR DOCTOR Many people at higher risk never develop cancer while others with no known risk factors do. Being aware of your personal situation can help you and your doctor make the right choices in the development of a short- and long-term plan to screen you for certain cancers as you age and help make the best lifestyle and medical decisions to keep you healthy and cancer-free. For more information about CentraState's cancer services, visit CancerCenterOfCentraState.com or call 866-411-CANCER (866-411-2262). HD Cristina Ignacio, MD Meet the Doc Cristina Ignacio, MD Medical Specialty: Family Medicine Medical School: University of the City of Manila, Philippines Residency: Michigan State University/GRMERC, Grand Rapids, Mich. Board Certification: Family Medicine What led you to the medical field? Growing up, my parents taught me the importance of helping people. I would volunteer during summer in medical missions and other community service programs. It was during my interaction with patients and their families that I realized and opened my eyes to how powerful knowledge and compassion can be as tools for change and healing, thus fueling my interest in medicine. What interested you in family medicine and preventative care in general? Family medicine gave me the opportunity to treat people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. I like to be able to take care of the whole family and build long-term relationships with them. I always emphasize to my patients the importance of preventative care, including cancer screenings, immunizations, annual physicals, etc., to maintain good health and prevent diseases before they occur. What is the most gratifying part of your job as a physician? To be able to build a good relationship with my patients. Being able to help them is very fulfilling and gratifying to me as a physician. Office: Family Practice of CentraState – Jackson 161 Bartley Road Jackson, NJ 08527 732-363-6140 www.centrastate.com Summer 2015 5

• Cover