Learn About Cancer

There are seven wellness choices we can make to prevent cancer. These healthy ways may prevent 2 out of every 3 deaths from cancer. This information is provided in Inupiaq and English. 

Cancer and Teens: Ways to Decrease Cancer Risk or Prevent Cancer

Cancer Risk Factors and Prevention

Talking about wellness ways are important to support each other in living well throughout our life’s journey.  Discuss and share your traditional Native wellness ways and how they help to decrease cancer risk or prevent cancer.

What is a risk factor?

A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chance of developing a disease. Different types of cancer have different risk factors. However, tobacco is a risk factor for developing cancers in nearly every organ in your body including the bladder, cervix, colon/rectum, esophagus, kidneys, lips, liver, lungs, mouth, pancreas, stomach, and many more! 

Drinking alcohol is a risk factor for many cancers including the breast, esophagus, larynx, liver, mouth, pancreas, stomach, and throat.

An important part of understanding risk is knowing that future cancers are related to the choices we are making now. The process of cancer growth from a single malignant or cancer cell with signs and symptoms may take years. 

Several cancer risk factors are also risk factors for other diseases like heart disease and diabetes - these risk factors include overweight/obesity, physical inactivity, and eating unhealthy foods.

What can we do to prevent cancer?

It is currently believed that most cancers are related to lifestyle: the food we eat, the exercise we get, and the choices we make. This means that most cancers may be prevented by eating healthy foods, being physically active, and choosing not to use tobacco or alcohol. Having recommended cancer screening exams can help us to find changes early before they become cancer or help us to find and treat cancers early. 

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