Cancer
What is cancer?
There are many different types of cancer. When cells divide uncontrollably and form lumps or masses of tissue called tumors they can interfere with how the body functions.
Tumors that stay in one spot and show limited growth are usually seen as being benign and non-cancerous. Tumors that grow and spread are called malignant.
Cancer prevention
Cancer prevention is taking steps to help lower your chances of getting cancer. Many cancers can be prevented by making healthier lifestyle choices:
- choosing not to smoke,
- avoiding second-hand smoke,
- eating well,
- being active,
- having a healthy weight, and
- protecting yourself from the sun's rays.
Cancer screening means testing your body for cancer. Cancer screening can save lives because it can find cancer earlier, sometimes before symptoms are present or find cancer in the early stages when it is easier to treat.
When should I be screened for cancer?
Use the Time To Screen Tool to help you find out when you should be screened for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer. These three cancer screening programs--breast, cervical and colorectal--are provincially supported.