In South Korea, cervical cancer remains a significant health concern, ranking as the ninth most frequent cancer among women and the third most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age. Despite these alarming statistics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasize that up to 93 percent of cervical cancer cases could potentially be prevented with appropriate measures and interventions.
Dr. Dana Cohen, an integrative medicine specialist who graduated from St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in the Caribbean, shares valuable advice on how to reduce the risk of this deadly disease through daily holistic wellness practices. Understanding the causes and risk factors of cervical cancer is crucial for effective prevention. The primary cause is persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). While most HPV infections clear up naturally without causing significant harm, persistent infections can lead to changes in the cells of the cervix, eventually forming cancerous tumors.
Other risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, a weakened immune system, genetic predisposition, and lack of screening. To combat these risks, Dr. Cohen recommends a combination of vaccination, regular screenings, and healthy lifestyle choices. Vaccination for HPV, along with regular Pap smears and HPV tests, are crucial for early detection and treatment of pre-cancerous conditions.
In terms of healthy lifestyle choices, Dr. Cohen suggests nourishing the immune system with functional nutrition. This includes incorporating adaptogenic mushrooms like chaga, shiitake, and lion’s mane, which enhance immune function and have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, vitamin C found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, as well as folate found in lentils, eggs, spinach, and bananas, are essential for supporting immune health.
Proper hydration is also key in maintaining a healthy immune system, as it supports blood volume and circulation, ensuring immune cells travel efficiently and toxins are removed from the body. Stress reduction activities such as mindfulness, meditation, regular physical activity, and holistic therapies like aromatherapy, acupuncture, and massage can also help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
By incorporating these preventative measures into their daily routines, women in South Korea can take proactive steps to protect their health and reduce the burden of cervical cancer. Strengthening the immune system through proper nutrition, hydration, and stress reduction, combined with vaccination and regular screenings, can significantly lower the risk of developing this deadly disease.
St. George’s University (SGU) is a center for academic excellence worldwide, offering a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree program accredited by the Grenada Medical and Dental Council. With students and faculty from over 150 countries, SGU provides a uniquely global perspective on medical education. The school has a large network of affiliated hospitals and health centers in the US and UK, offering students the opportunity to begin their medical careers in Grenada or the UK.
In conclusion, by raising awareness about the causes and risk factors of cervical cancer and promoting preventative measures such as vaccination, regular screenings, and healthy lifestyle choices, women in South Korea can empower themselves to take control of their health and reduce the incidence of this deadly disease.