Primary Prevention

• Consume a low fat diet (no more than 30% of total daily calories) high fiber diet (20-30 grams/day)
• Eat five-nine servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
• Control your calorie intake to maintain or achieve your ideal body weight.
• Do not use tobacco products.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure without protective clothing and sun screen.
• Avoid alcohol or consume only in moderation. This means no more than 1 drink/day for females and 2 drinks/day for males.
• Avoid exposure to cancer causing chemicals and materials.
• Use protective clothing during exposure to hazardous substances.
• Check your home for cancer causing agents, such as asbestos and radon.
• Practice safe sex.

Secondary Prevention
Regular screening tests called secondary prevention can help detect cancers in the early stages. This is when cancer is easiest to cure. Below are screening tests/examinations available to you. Ask your doctor which tests are appropriate for you and how frequently you should have them performed.

Prostate

• Digital rectal exam
• Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)

Colon

• Digital rectal exam
• Stool blood test
• Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy

Skin

• Skin exam by a health care provider

Oral

• Oral exam by dentist

Breast (female)

• Breast exam by health care provider
• Mammogram

Cervical

• Pelvic exam
• Pap test

For more information about any cancer concern, contact:

Cancer Information Service
Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center
UI Hospitals and Clinics
200 Hawkins Drive, 4802 JPP
Iowa City, Iowa 52242
Toll-free: 1-800-237-1225
cancer-information@uiowa.edu