People worry about cancer for many different reasons. Perhaps someone close to you has been diagnosed. Or maybe you have symptoms you think might be cancer.
Find information about all types of cancer, including diagnosis, treatments and drugs, as well as advice to help with the different ways cancer may impact your life.
Possible causes of cancer
Anyone can get cancer and it’s not always clear what causes it. But there are things that can increase your risk of getting certain types of cancer.
These can include:
- Getting older
- Family members having certain cancers
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking, being overweight, exposure to too much sun and drinking too much alcohol
- Having certain viruses – such as human papillomavirus (HPV) or hepatitis
- Having certain conditions – such as severe acid reflux or Lynch syndrome (a condition that runs in families)
- Environmental influences in your workplace or living area – such as exposure to asbestos or air pollution
Reducing your risk
You cannot always prevent cancer, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of getting some types of cancer.
- Attend cancer screening when you’re invited – such as cervical screening, breast screening (mammogram) or bowel cancer screening
- Receive the HPV vaccine or hepatitis b vaccine if you’re offered them
- Speak to a GP about genetic testing for cancer risk genes if a type of cancer runs in your family or a relative has been told they have a faulty gene linked to cancer
- Reduce your alcohol intake and avoid drinking more than 14 units a week
- Try to lose weight if you’re overweight, or keep to a healthy weight
- Consider quitting smoking
- Follow advice on sunscreen and sun safety such as wearing sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and spending time in the shade, to protect your skin
- Eat a balanced and nutritious diet
- Be physically active – aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week – aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week
The Macmillan Information and Support Centre
The Macmillan Information and Support Centre provides a confidential drop-in service for anyone affected by cancer.
This includes people who:
Require information about cancer
Have a cancer diagnosis
Have survived cancer
Are living with the consequences of a cancer diagnosis
Are looking to reduce the risks of cancer
Are a carer, relative or friend of someone with cancer
Are healthcare professionals
The Trinity Holistic Centre
Based at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough (opposite the spinal injuries unit) and the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton (The Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Centre), the Trinity Holistic team is a charitable service supporting patients with cancer and other long term conditions, as well as their families and hospital staff.