Health through prevention against cancer - Germany / Federal Republic of Germany 1981 - 40 Pfennig

Cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases in all civilized countries. At present, it must be expected for the Federal Republic that under constant conditions every third citizen suffers from a malignant neoplasm and one in five dies of cancer. These are about 150,000 deaths a year in the Federal Republic. Since 1971, cancer screening tests have been offered under the statutory health insurance scheme, which could account for approximately one-third of all malignant neoplasms in the male and two-thirds of all female cases. All of these cancers, if recognized early enough and consistently treated, have good prospects of healing. It is therefore important that every woman from the age of 20 and every man over the age of 45 takes part once a year in the cancer screening program in order to have the greatest chance of recovery in case of illness. This applies to malignant neoplasms of the sexual organs, the urinary tract, the skin, the colon and, in women, the breast. Prevention of cancer not only means participating in medical examinations, but also observing so-called warning signs that may indicate cancer, such as - non-healing sores or ulcers, - nodules and thickening in or under the skin, especially in the area the chest, neck, armpit or groin, - any change in a wart or molar, - persistent or progressive stomach, intestinal or swallowing complaints, - persistent cough or permanent choking, - unusual discharge from a body opening, such as Mucus or blood (eg in the stool, urine or sputum), disorders of urination, pain in urination, - irregular, especially strong and frequent menstrual bleeding, vaginal discharge and re-bleeding after the cessation of menstruation during menopause. If these warning signs occur, it is important to see a doctor for clarification. Finally, there is the opportunity to prevent the risk of cancer through a conscious and healthy lifestyle. This includes primarily the prevention of smoking. There is a close link between lung cancer and inhaled tobacco smoke; In addition, smoking has a promoting influence on the development of other forms of cancer because, for. B. dangerous smoke ingredients dissolved in saliva and then swallowed. However, avoiding overly intense and frequent exposure to sunlight, observing regulations designed to protect against harmful fumes, dust and liquids, or avoiding the consumption of moldy foods and excessively toasted bread can be used to prevent cancer. To be warned against so-called outsider methods in the treatment of cancer, which, without being scientifically sound, often only raise false hopes, thereby delay a timely and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment and thus worsen the inherent chances of recovery. In the fight against cancer, the current state of knowledge, in addition to the actual prevention early detection as the basis and prerequisite for successful therapy is the most important weapon. (Text: Federal Ministry for Youth, Family and Health)