One in three New Zealanders will have an experience of cancer(1), whether it is a personal experience or through a friend or relative. That’s a pretty scary statistic, so what can we do about it?
Scientific research shows that getting cancer is not only down to our genes, it’s a combination of factors, which include our genes, environment and aspects of our lifestyle. These are called risk factors and yes, we can do something about them.
It’s true that some cancers are passed down through families, but most of us can reduce our cancer risk by living a healthy lifestyle. That means getting plenty of exercise, eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy body weight and minimising our exposure to cancer-causing chemicals such as those found in tobacco and alcohol.
In New Zealand, it is particularly important to avoid exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays that can cause skin cancer.
Physically, emotionally and financially, a cancer diagnosis brings big life changes, but there are some steps you can take to reduce the impact it has on your life.
1. Think about prevention
Are there aspects of your lifestyle that you could improve to reduce your risk of developing cancer? Perhaps you can increase the amount of vegetables in your diet (five plus a day!) or maybe it’s time get out there and start a new exercise regime? It’s also beneficial to cut back on your alcohol consumption. If you are a smoker, it might be time to consider quitting – your health and your wallet will thank you.
2. Are you prepared?
Cancer Cover insurance can make a real difference to how you and your family copes with a cancer diagnosis. Cigna Cancer Cover(2) gives you choices. It’s an insurance that will provide you with a tax-free lump sum payment on diagnosis and it’s completely up to you how that money is spent. You’ll be able to explore treatment options, pay off bills or use it towards rehabilitation. Payments can also be used to help tick off that bucket list, take a family holiday or do something you’ve always dreamed about.
3. Focus on the future
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it’s normal to experience a range of difficult and confusing emotions. During this period of adjustment, you may find it useful to find out as much as possible about the cancer and its treatment. Talk to family and friends about your feelings and try to focus on the things you can control – it’s always better when we face things together.
To find out more about Cigna’s Cancer Cover, click here or call 0800 996 063
(1)Ministry of Health
(2)Terms, conditions and exclusions apply, including for pre-existing conditions
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