A new initiative in Sumter, South Carolina, is helping cancer survivors and their families understand the role of diet and lifestyle in the fight against cancer. The Cancer Cooking School Tour, a first-of-its-kind event, aims to teach how small changes in everyday habits can reduce the risk of cancer and assist in treatment.
Breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men are the two most common cancer diagnoses in the United States, with projections indicating that they will remain the most prevalent in 2025. As these numbers continue to rise, the Cancer Cooking School Tour hopes to make a difference by educating the community about cancer prevention through nutrition.
Collaboration Aims to Empower the Community
The event is a collaboration between the City of Sumter and the South Carolina Research Extension Center. It brings together cancer survivors, those currently fighting cancer, and their families to learn how nutrition can play a vital role in both preventing and treating the disease.
Tamar Gooseby, a family and nutrition health agent, emphasized that it’s never too late to start adopting a healthier lifestyle. “We’ve already talked about the importance of healthy eating at all ages. You are never too old to start,” she said.
The event’s slogan, “Eat fair and fight strong,” underscores the idea that diet and lifestyle choices can significantly impact cancer prevention.
Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference
Gooseby explained that making small adjustments, such as improving diet and increasing physical activity, can lower the risk of developing certain cancers. “We are showing that with just small changes, like being more active or eating different foods, you can reduce the risk of certain cancers,” she said.
For individuals already diagnosed with cancer, Gooseby stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy diet to help fight the disease. “Eating a healthier diet can help you fight it more, so I would still advocate for eating healthy while you have cancer,” she added.
Demonstrating Cancer-Fighting Cooking Methods
The event also featured cooking demonstrations designed to show participants how to prepare meals that can lower cancer risk. These sessions provided practical tools and recipes to incorporate cancer-fighting ingredients into daily meals.
Experts highlighted the importance of early intervention in cancer prevention. Chinel Boateng, a representative from the American Cancer Society, also encouraged vaccinations and regular screenings as key preventative measures.
The Importance of Screenings and Vaccinations
Boateng recommended that children and adults between the ages of nine and 26 receive the HPV vaccine, which can prevent certain types of cancers. She also emphasized that women over 40 should undergo regular breast cancer screenings, with more frequent checks for those with a family history. For men, colorectal cancer screenings should start at age 45.
“Not just for yourself; your neighbor, anybody in your circle—get screened. That’s the most important thing,” Boateng said. “Also, pay attention to your body. There may be something happening inside that you can’t see on the outside. Always have your annual physical, and know your numbers.”
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer ranks as the 10th leading cause of cancer-related deaths in South Carolina.
Taking Action Against Cancer
For more information on cancer prevention and screenings, the American Cancer Society encourages individuals to visit their website or consult with a healthcare provider to take proactive steps in protecting their health.
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