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Why Regular Screening is Essential to Prevent Cancer

Almost everyone is familiar with the disease cancer, we may call it by various regional language names, but the fear and deaths associated with this disease is palpable at every section of society. When our own body cells grow and spread at an abnormal and uncontrolled rate it is called Cancer. Both external and internal factors may cause cancer to develop in body.

Cancer is one of the leading cause of deaths worldwide. It is a rapidly emerging deadly disease which causes enormous suffering and pain, not only to the patient but also to his or her family. But timely diagnose can prevent this cruel disease to destroy our health and happiness, hence it is very important to undergo routine screening. So, this world cancer day let’s explore why regular screening is the need of the hour?

Cancer in figures

Only in United States, around 1.8 million people are diagnosed with this destructive disease annually. Breast cancer in most diagnosed cancer among women while in men prostate cancer is increasing at a lethal rate. Lung cancer has result in maximum number of cancer related deaths followed by colorectal and pancreatic cancer. Did you know more men die of cancer than women?

What is screening

Getting your body routinely checked in absence of symptoms is called as screening. In screening for cancer, tests and physical exams are designed in a manner to detect occult cancer even before symptoms are appearing.

Why is screening so important

Cancer is not direct result of any infection. Our own body cells behave abnormally and grow at very unrestrained manner. This accumulation of cells called as tumor, can be benign (harmless) or malignant. For symptoms to appear it takes time. By the time you have symptom, cancer usually gets at an advanced stage in most of cases.
Screening detects this growth even before symptoms appear. Screening makes cancer to be diagnosed when it is still treatable.
The ultimate objective of screening is to reduce number of cancer deaths and cancer sufferings.
One of the important benefits of screening is prevention of cancer due to awareness.
Screening detects very slow growing tumors which grows silently without causing any trouble to patient.
Screening provides immense mental relief when negative and decreases your stress.
Early detection prevents spread to other body parts and can be treated with better recovery rate.
When detected early, it saves both money and time taken for treatment.
In simple words,early detection of cancers equals to better survival rate.
Types of screening

Clinical examination: This is focused on physical exams like checking for lumps, lymph nodes, any growths, breast exams, skin check (for skin cancers) etc.
Mammography: This is done to detect breast cancerand is a X Ray based test.
Blood test: Certain cancer blood markers are checked in blood to detect cancer followed by advanced tests, if required. This is also not a routine but done in high risk cases. Also, simple Blood counts can detect any abnormality like increased white blood cell counts or change in Red blood cells morphology; which can detect certain blood cancers in assistance with advanced and specific tests.Prostate Specific antigen is checked in blood to detect prostate cancers. However, this is not a specific test and needs further investigating.
PAP test: This test is used as screening tool to detect any presence of pre- cancerous or cancerous cells in cervix of female. This can prevent many cervical cancers. Also strain of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can be detected from samples of vagina or cervix. This virus is associated with increased risk of cervical cancer.
Scopy: Various scopies like colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies where flexible & lubricated tubes are inserted in rectum to detect colo-rectal cancers are also used.
Stool and urine test: Simple laboratory tests may not detect cancers but can tell a lot about your general health. Any deviation from normal figures may lead to further probe and may prevent many diseases including cancers from becoming advanced.
DNA tests: This is not a routine. Being a time consuming and expensive tests these are restricted for people with strong family history of cancers.
X Rays: Simple X Rays can sometimes detect any growths like lung cancer etc.
Rectal exam: Prostate cancer is a leading cancer is men and it can be detected at early screening tests by rectal exam where doctors uses his gloved fingers to check prostate gland for any surface irregularities.
Specific tests: Highly advanced screening, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomographic scan (CT scan) are done as per requirement of individual case. They are not done on routine basis but can be done in high risk cases only.

However, screening has it’s own limitation too. It cannot always diagnose cancer and may provide you false assurance. Also, it can be sometimes over diagnosed you and may unnecessarily subjects you to a battery of tests. But overall benefits of screening, surpasses it’s limitations.

When is screening advised?

In women, PAP test is advised after 21 years age, every 3 years
Mammography for women above 40, every 5 years
Colonoscopy should be priority in men after 45 years age along with PSA test for screening prostate cancer
Note: Screening should be discussed and done as per doctor’s advice, since it may vary with individual case.

On this world cancer day, let’s also have some tips for preventing cancer:

Stop smoking and say good bye to alcohol and tobacco
Eat organic and fresh foods free of chemicals and preservatives
Eat balanced diet and exercise regularly
Avoid pollutants as far as possible, wear anti-pollution mask
Avoid Sun exposure in mid noon
Avoid too much of chemical treatment for skin and hair
Stay away from infections as far as possible
Opt for regular screening

In a nutshell, this WORLD CANCER DAY,let’s pledge to defeat Cancer. CHOOSE screening,SAVE lives; because each life matters.

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How To Cultivate A Reading Habit?

“A book is a garden, an orchard, a storehouse, a party, a company by the way, a counselor, a multitude of counselors.” – Charles Baudelaire
Developing a reading habit is very beneficial in this dynamic world. It must always be inculcated since childhood to have a habit of reading different genres that you like. A person who has a habit of reading has a vast knowledge about topics and can share their insights on the same. If you are someone who wants to cultivate a reading habit and don’t know where to find a book, you can easily try online sites like Nogozo, where the collection is huge and the price is affordable. To know the ways to cultivate a reading habit, keep reading.
1. Take out a time in your schedule dedicated wholly to read a book without any distraction.
2. Don’t force yourself to read a book as it would not create interest or impart any knowledge.
3. Try identifying the genres of books you like. You can do so by reading books about each category and then analyze which category interests you the most.
4. Always carry a book with you so that you can read it in your free time or to reduce stress.
5. Make sure that the surrounding is apt for reading, most preferably a quiet place so that you have utmost focus and concentration.
6. Make sure to read an entire chapter before keeping the book away. Reading unfinished chapters might lead to forgetting what had been read before.
7. Don’t use social media or other gadgets while reading a book. However, soothing music might help you read better.
8. If you are someone who can’t afford costly books, try going for second-hand books. Websites like Nogozo.com , provide second-hand books and also books that can be taken on rent.
9. Lastly, you can try reading blog posts that might interest you. In this way, you will have an interest in reading.
Other than the above points, there are other ways as well but the important ones have been highlighted above. If you’re someone who is on a tight budget and don’t know where to find books to buy from, you can try Nogozo.com , an online store that caters to all your demands of books starting from novels, class 10, class 12, IIT, JEE, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Economics, etc. They also provide used and second-hand books at an affordable rate. You can also get books on rent at a starting price of just Rs.10/month.
Thank you for reading!

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How To Reduce The Amount Of Tax You Pay To The Government With IRS Tax Relief Pr

How To Reduce The Amount Of Tax You Pay To The Government With IRS Tax Relief Program

Every year, millions of Americans dutifully submit their tax returns, hoping to have accurately calculated their dues. However, the complexities of the tax system, combined with life’s unpredictable circumstances, can sometimes leave individuals burdened with overwhelming tax debt. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t despair! The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has programs in place to help individuals reduce their tax liability and find relief from excessive debt.

In this post, we will delve into how you can take advantage of these IRS tax relief programs and alleviate some of your financial burdens.

Understand The Fresh Start Program

When the IRS recognizes that taxpayers might be facing financial challenges, they introduce provisions to assist them. One such provision that has received significant attention is the Fresh Start Program.

The IRS Start program helps solve tax issues by providing a more flexible approach in terms of payment and penalty reductions. Key features of this program include:

● Expanded Installment Agreements: This allows individual taxpayers who owe up to $50,000 to pay through monthly direct debit payments for up to six years.

● Offer in Compromise (OIC): This allows taxpayers to settle their tax debt for less than the full amount they owe. The IRS will consider your unique set of facts and circumstances including your ability to pay, income, expenses, and asset equity.

● Penalty Relief: Certain unemployed taxpayers might be eligible to have their failure-to-pay penalties waived.

Negotiate An Offer In Compromise (OIC)

An OIC is one of the most popular ways to reduce the amount of tax owed. This program allows you to negotiate with the IRS to pay a lesser amount than you owe, especially if paying the full amount will cause financial hardship.

The key to a successful OIC is to offer a reasonable amount that is within your means, but also one that the IRS believes is the most they can expect to collect within a reasonable period.

Apply For Penalty Abatement
Penalties can accumulate quickly and can represent a significant portion of your tax liability. In certain situations, the IRS will remove penalties for taxpayers who have a clean compliance history. This is known as the First Time Penalty Abatement. If you qualify, this can significantly reduce your overall tax liability.

Opt For Temporary Delay

If you’re facing severe financial hardship, the IRS may temporarily delay collection efforts. This means they’ll put a hold on your account and you won’t be required to make payments during this time. However, be aware that your tax debt will continue to accrue interest and penalties.

Set Up An Installment Agreement
If you can’t pay your tax bill in full, consider setting up a monthly payment plan or installment agreement with the IRS.

This allows you to pay down your debt over time. While you’ll still face interest and some penalties, it’s typically less than the cost of letting your debt remain unpaid or trying to pay it all at once and facing financial hardship.

Check If You Qualify For Innocent Spouse Relief

There are instances when one spouse might be unaware of the other’s actions that led to a tax debt. In such cases, the innocent spouse can file for Innocent Spouse Relief, which might relieve them of the tax, interest, and penalties associated with their spouse’s (or ex-spouse’s) actions.

Stay Updated With Tax Laws And Credits
This is a proactive approach rather than a reactive one. By staying updated with the latest tax laws, deductions, and credits, you can maximize your tax return and minimize your liability each year. It’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re making the most of your financial situation.

Conclusion

Facing a hefty tax bill can be daunting. However, the IRS offers multiple avenues to help taxpayers manage and reduce their liabilities. From the Fresh Start Program to Penalty Abatements, there are options to help you navigate your tax situation.

It’s essential to act promptly and consult with a tax professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Remember, these relief programs are in place to help, but taking full advantage of them requires knowledge and timely action.

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