Reducing Second Cancer Risk

Secondary cancers are new cancers that are unrelated to a cancer you have previously had. They are not the spread of or the recurrence of an original cancer. Cancer survivors are at increased risk for a second cancer. 

There are things that you can do to reduce your chances of getting a second cancer.

• Follow the survivorship care plan designed by your oncologist.
• Continue your routine medical care with your primary care doctor after you complete your cancer treatment.
• See your oncologist when recommended.
• Tell your doctors about any symptoms or new problems.
• Take medications as prescribed by your oncologist and primary care doctor.
• Complete cancer screening tests at recommended intervals. 
• Work with your health care team to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Stop smoking.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Eat healthy food including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans. Limit the amount of red and processed meat you eat. Limit consumption of fast foods and sugar-sweetened drinks.
• Get regular exercise. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity each day.
• Limit your alcohol intake to 1 drink or less per day for women and 2 or fewer drinks per day for men.
• Be sun safe by covering your skin when in the sun, using sunscreen, and wearing sunglasses. Note:  Exposure to UV radiation from indoor tanning devices can cause skin cancer. Avoid indoor tanning.
• Get enough rest and sleep.

Survivor Resources

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) recommends the use of two types of plans following the completion of cancer treatment:

• The treatment plan: This plan, completed by your oncology team, stores information about your cancer, the treatment you received, and any follow-up care that you should get. It provides basic information about your medical history to be given to any doctors who will care for you in the future.
• The survivorship care plan: In this plan, you will find information about the treatment you received for your cancer and the need for check-ups and cancer tests in the future. This plan also would include any potential long-term effects of the treatment you received as well as information about improving your health overall.

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