B8

Cindy Sheppard
Caring Matters

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As I sat to write today's column, I pondered the many and varied agencies and organizations in our city whose goal is to make the lives of anyone in need of their services a little better.

There are many different groups, and over the course of time, I hope I can write about each one to inform the public of their mission and goals.

Today, however, I am writing about an organization so many of us know, most of us are aware it exists, and too many of us have been touched by it - the Canadian Cancer Society. I am writing to heighten awareness, since one of my friends was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

Most readers are aware of the multiple campaigns that are undertaken for various cancer research initiatives - the Terry Fox Run, the Run for the Cure, walks, runs and golf tournaments galore to fund research and find a cure for this disease.

A quick review of the Canadian Cancer Society website shows 29 different types of cancer. The hope, the dream and the ultimate goal are to eradicate each one so that no one we know or love will ever have to face this diagnosis.

Statistically, this year in Canada alone, there will be 166,400 new cases of cancer. Lung cancer is still the leading cause of cancer death in both sexes.

The statistics are staggering. No one is immune. It is not a disease that selects based on gender, social status or age. It is prevalent in young and old, wealthy and poor. It is indiscriminate and therefore, it is so important to ensure we support research funding and take personal steps to reduce the risk.

While much research shows connections or links between certain activities and cancer, there are also many myths surrounding the disease.

For example, research by the Canadian Cancer Society shows no direct link between antiperspirants and breast cancer.

Based on the website, there is no evidence that re-using your plastic water bottle causes cancer.

There are other facts on the site that will be of interest, many clarifying or dispelling myths that are circulated via e-mail on everything from oysters and soya sauce to tan-less skin products. It is very informative and should be read if you are concerned about specific cancer-causing products.

As the old adage goes, knowledge is power. That is so important when it comes to our health.

It is important to understand those activities and products that do not lead directly to cancer, but it is also so important to understand things you can do to reduce your probability of getting the disease.

For example, research says there is a direct connection between lung cancer and smoking. Thus, quitting smoking can be a positive health move.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating right and exercising regularly are also cited as positive moves to reduce the risk.

Regular check ups with your family physician can lead to early detection and early treatment leading to higher survival rates.

Use good sunsense. As attractive as that summer tan might be, its impact on your health might not be as attractive. Educate yourself and protect your family from overexposure to sun, even in winter.

Take the steps to reduce the risk, while at the same time, support the many initiatives in your community to put an end to cancer.

Check out your local Canadian Cancer Society office at 453-1551 or the Canadian Cancer Society website at www.cancer.ca to find out ways you can support initiatives to find a cure.

In the meantime, take the steps you need to reduce the risk.

Cindy Sheppard is the executive director of the Fredericton Community Foundation. Her column profiling non-profit agencies appears every second Thursday. Please send comments to letters@dailygleaner.com.