Statistics show that one-in-three people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. As for what causes the disease, Oncologist Dr. Lyn Baatz of Holy Family Memorial Cancer Center says it appears to be a combination of many things, “We’re beginning to understand that there probably are some genetic tendencies towards cancer in some individuals and in some cancers. There are also variations and mutations in the genetic makeup of individuals, which may make them more likely to get certain kinds of cancers. There are probably environmental factors as well and things that may pertain to our lifestyles.”
Dr. Baatz says breast and cervical cancer are the two most common types in women while for Men, it’s of the prostrate variety. She says the cancer risk for females can be lowered through lifestyle changes.
“For example, studies have shown that women who maintain a healthy weight, women who have a lower saturated fat diet may be at less risk than those who do not do those things. Exercise on a regular basis also appears to be an important issue for lowering the risk for, not just breast cancer, but many cancers.”
During an appearance this week on WOMT 1240 AM’s Just-the-Facts program, it was pointed out that lung cancer is one of the most common forms. Here in Manitowoc County, Lung cancer strikes about 60 people every year, based on information from the National Cancer Institute’s state profiles. It’s also the leading cause of death in both men and women.
