Are you tough enough for this year’s Medihelp Sunrise Monster in aid of CANSA Active to help raise awareness of cancer?

The 38th annual Medihelp Sunrise Monster will take place on Saturday, 7 March 2015 at Harlequins in Totius Road, Groenkloof, Pretoria and promises to pose a real challenge to serious athletes preparing for the Comrades, and real fun for fitness fanatics and their families.

What the Sunrise Monster offers

The 32 km event is one of the best conditioning races for the Comrades Marathon, while the 10 km Mini Monster and the 5 km Baby Monster fun run offer a less rigorous challenge to those who might not be quite tough enough for the main race.   But the Medihelp Sunrise Monster also caters for newcomers to the running scene who simply want to have some fun in the sun with friends and family.

Race information

• Download Race Entry Information (including rules, route, map to venue, prizes and entry form)
• Download Press Release:  English | Afrikaans

Medihelp’s Principal Officer, Heyn van Rooyen, says the Medihelp Sunrise Monster is the perfect opportunity for all to stay fit and healthy.  “Since Medihelp firmly believes in the importance of preventive measures and following a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of diseases, the 2015 Medihelp Sunrise Monster is the ideal opportunity to get your heart racing.”  Read more about living a balanced lifestyle to reduce your cancer risk.

Dressing up in green is a long-standing tradition at the Sunrise Monster, and this year will be no different. Participants who are spotted on race day wearing something green could win one of two lucky-draw prizes – R1 000 for an individual and R2 500 for a family!  Van Rooyen says the creativity of participants who dress up in green is expected to reach new heights at this year’s event.  To enter or read more about the Medihelp Sunrise Monster, visit Medihelp’s events page.

Follow Medihelp on social media:  Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

CANSA Active

The 2015 Medihelp Sunrise Monster will be held in aid of CANSA Active to help raise awareness of cancer. Athletes and spectators at this year’s race can show their support for the CANSA Active cause by making an online donation, having their hair sprayed or purchasing one of CANSA’s colourful wraps (buffs) on the day of the race.   Read more about CANSA Active.

Click here to make an online donation to CANSA Active on the secure GivenGain platform.

CANSA is looking to recruit a suitable candidate in the position of Payroll Administrator (CANSA Head Office – Bedfordview) and invites competent and qualified persons to apply for the following position.

Purpose of the Job:

To assist with all HR / Payroll functions and administration.

Generic Details:

• Download pdf with job requirements & contact info here…
• Deadline: 28 February 2015

About CANSA:

• Our Purpose: To lead the fight against cancer in South Africa.
• Our Mission: To be the preferred non-profit leader that enables research, educates the public and provides support to all people affected by cancer.
• Read more…

CANSA would like to know what your concerns and point of view are. Do you have something you would like to share? Do so in the comment box below. Please note that these comments will be public, should they be approved.

Help make medicines affordable in South Africa! Participate in this five-minute survey about your experiences accessing medicine.

Patent Monopolies Restrict Access to Affordable Generics

Did you know that one of the reasons medicines can be expensive is because of patent monopolies? Patents restrict access to affordable and effective generics.

South Africa gives out nearly 3,000 pharmaceutical patents each year, far more than many other developing countries. The high number of patents is in large part because the country doesn’t examine patent applications, and allows multiple patents on a single drug.

The result is high medicine prices and restricted access to affordable and effective generics for everyone-including you.

Patented Cancer Drugs Very Expensive Compared to International Generics

For example, many cancer drugs are patented, and therefore very expensive, in South Africa, but are available generically internationally. Take Gleevec (imatinib) which treats multiple cancers but most notably leukemia: it’s several times more expensive in South Africa than internationally.

What Can You Do to Help?

South Africa’s government can do something to change this.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF), in partnership with the Treatment Action Campaign and SECTION27, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and many other NGO’s calls on the government to Fix the Patent Laws by adopting policies that enable affordable medicines.

Now, the campaign wants to hear from you!

Through this five-minute survey, ‘Fix the Patent Laws’ asks patients who use the public and / or private sector to tell us about your experiences getting – or not getting – the medicine you need.

Your participation will help us to identify medicines that are out of reach because they are patented and unaffordable, and ultimately assist in promoting pro-public health policies in South Africa.

Complete 5 Minute Survey

• The patients’ survey is available here
• The clinicians’ survey is available here

You’ll see that respondents can choose to leave their contact information or not – we will absolutely respect anonymity if required.

Deadline: 13 March 2015

Queries

For more information on Fix the Patent Laws, visit fixthepatentlaws.org – You can also follow them on Twitter @FixPatentLaw

9 February 2015: The Absa Cape Epic is taking place from 15 to 22 March 2015, with seven teams riding in support of CANSA, an official charity for the event. The Prologue of the race starts at the base of the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town, and finishes off eight days later at Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville.

CANSA will be hosting sunscreen points at every stage of the race and offering free sunscreen to all riders and spectators. In addition to supplying sunscreen (which goes along with promoting being SunSmart to reduce the cancer risk) another important focus for CANSA at this year’s event will be to screen for skin cancer using a FotoFinder – a mole-mapping dermoscope device.

CANSA’s CEO, Elize Joubert says, “Our CANSA team will host health awareness exhibitions and offer free sunscreen at the Elgin, Worcester and Wellington stages. And we’ll be doing skin cancer mole mapping screening at the Prologue (15 March) and Grand Finale at Meerendal (22 March) with the FotoFinder. We encourage the riders and public to come and get screened and learn how to reduce your risk.”

Riders from Around Globe Supporting CANSA

The event attracts riders from all over the world, each with their own reason for taking part. CANSA has seven teams riding in support of them under the ‘CANSA Active’ group, some of whom are raising money for CANSA through online efforts leading up to the race.

For the second year in a row, Ruben Folgado and Sergio Paz, two cyclists from Spain, who have both been affected by cancer, will ride the Absa Cape Epic in support of the CANSA. Along with them will be teams from Spain, Australia and South Africa.

Gary Samuel Aaron, a cyclist from one of the Australian teams has this to say; “In 2003 my daughter, Sara, who was three years old at the time, was diagnosed with a large brain tumour. After several long surgical procedures and years of rehabilitation she is doing unbelievably well. She is 15 now and such an inspiration, she even summited Kilimanjaro with me last year. She is the reason why I am participating in this race, and doing it for CANSA.”

“For the second year, we have international riders (and more than we had previously) who are riding for CANSA in the Cape Epic. It’s amazing to see people from all over the world join the fight against cancer and support our cause. All of these riders have been affected by cancer in some way and it gives us hope to see how they inspire those around them to join the fight,” continues Joubert.

All of the CANSA Active riders are helping CANSA raise awareness about leading a balanced lifestyle, playing sport safely in the sun as well as providing education on being cancer-aware by encouraging smart choices with regards to diet and lifestyle. CANSA Active also gives riders the opportunity to participate in their favourite sporting activity or race, while raising funds online to support CANSA’s care and support to those affected by cancer.

Malignant melanoma (sometimes referred to as only melanoma) is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and currently accounts for approximately 1% of all cancer deaths. South Africa has one of the highest incidences, if not the highest, of malignant melanoma in the world as far as Caucasians are concerned. Melanoma is caused mainly by intense, occasional UV exposure (frequently leading to sunburn), especially in those who are genetically predisposed to the disease.

Cyclist, riders, runners, and anyone who partakes in outdoor sports are exposed to the sun’s UV rays, which can put them at risk for skin cancer.

Make an Online Donation Towards CANSA by Supporting Your Favourite Team:

Some of our CANSA Active teams will be raising money for CANSA through online fundraising pages they have created, leading up to the race.

• Ruben & Sergio’s fundraising page: ‘CANSA Tarraco Gladiators – Cape Epic 2015’
• Gary & Danny’s fundraising page: ‘Epic Hard Rock Challenge’
• Malcolm & Garth’s fundraising page: ‘Malcolm & Garth’s 2015 Cape Epic Adventure for CANSA’
• Erasmus and Wilbur’s fundraising page: ‘CANSA Active ABSA Cape Epic 2015 Project’

Sue Janse van Rensburg

13 March 2015 – A message from Elize Joubert, CANSA’s Acting CEO, on behalf of all CANSA Staff & Volunteers:

“It is with great sadness that we have received word of previous CANSA CEO, Sue Janse van Rensburg’s passing, after a recurrence of cancer. Sue was a cancer Survivor of over 30 years and served CANSA and our cause for nine years in the capacity of CEO. We herewith extend our condolences to her family and loved ones. We will always hold her very dear in our memories and her legacy will live on, as CANSA continues to care for & support those affected by cancer and strives to reduce cancer risk through screening & education.”

Sue helped position CANSA as a leading cancer non-profit organisation nationally and internationally. Under her leadership CANSA’s Watchdog Role, Research initiatives and CANSA Seal of Recognition programme were expanded.

Sue’s passion and the driving force behind her leadership of CANSA, is best described in her own words:

“Imagine a Cancer-Free Tomorrow: A thought to be treasured, as it holds a message of hope – a message that should be shared with ALL people, not only to those affected by cancer – a message to be advocated to all South Africans to motivate everyone to ‘take hands’ and help build a healthier future for our children… – a future without cancer.”

Angelique Wright describes her Shavathon of 2015:

“One of the biggest steps I have even taken but such a rewarding moment. I have been wanting to do this for about two years now. Have always sprayed my hair at every Shavathon and have always seen the brave individuals who have cut and shaved theirs. Last year I was inspired by a young lady Shivani Aiyer when she did it and then made up my mind that this year I would do the same.

A special thank you to Natasha from Hairstreakshairdesign Boardwalk for cutting my hair and styling it so beautifully afterwards. Thank you to Lizzy Van Zyl from CANSA Uthungulu for collecting and making all the arrangements to send off my 30cm hair donation to CANSA head office. Another thank you to Dave from ZO for all the awesome photos and trust that many will be inspired to support the CANSA organisation by either cutting, spraying, shaving at this year’s CANSA Shavathon.

Read more about donating your ponytail to support someone fighting cancer.

Tussen 17 en 19 Februarie en 23 en 24 Februarie het 17 dames van Vredendal, Klawer en Lambertsbaai byeen gekom om ‘n CANSA opleidingsessie in die Evangelies Gereformeerde Kerk in Vredendal by te woon.

Die dames is opgelei om diens te lewer as CANSA vrywilligers in hul onderskeie gemeenskappe.  Hul is bemagtig as pasiëntediens vrywilligers en kan ook as gemeenskapsprekers hul vrywillige tyd aan CANSA skenk.

Almal was baie entoesiasties en het met energie deel geneem aan al die besprekings en aanbiedings.  Aan die einde van dag 5 was almal dit eens dat die kursus hul lewens verryk het en dat hul gereed voel om hul deel as vrywilligers te kan doen.

Lees meer oor en kontak KANSA Weskus.

Cara Noble (far right), Regional Manager of CANSA’s Durban CANSA Care Centre, supports the ‘Be Sun Smart Schools Programme’

March 2015 – CANSA and the Skin Cancer Foundation of South Africa (SCFSA) have teamed up to support the ‘BE SUN SMART School Programme’ aimed at installing sunscreen dispensers at schools, in the fight against skin cancer.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in South Africa, and skin cancer rates in South Africa are among the highest in the world. However, the skin cancer risk can be reduced. The most vital step to reducing skin cancer is to keep children protected from UV radiation, whilst they’re outside, especially between 10h00 and 15h00, as well as encouraging use of SunSmart habits from an early age.

Schools Have NB Role to Play in Helping to Reduce Sunburn

“Research shows that reducing childhood exposure to ultraviolet radiation is an important step to minimising lifetime skin cancer risk. Children are especially at risk of UV radiation exposure and more vulnerable to sun damage in a shorter space of time, because their skin is thinner than an adult’s and far more sensitive,” says Dr Marc Roscher of SCFSA, who has helped grow ‘BE SUN SMART’.

Dr Caradee Wright, who has published many research studies on child sun exposure and sun protection, stresses that schools have an important role to play in supporting children to make healthy sun choices.

“There is evidence that shows that interventions by schools at primary school level can reduce sunburn incidence and new melanocytic mole development. This means that the school environment can support healthy child sun exposure and reduce risk of skin cancer later in life. In South Africa, sun protection has not been a top priority for public schools, because these schools have other pressing issues that take precedence,” says Wright.

Partnership with Nivea Sun

‘BE SUN SMART’ was launched in KwaZulu-Natal last year by two concerned Durban mothers, Hayleigh Bott and Donna Short, in partnership with NIVEA Sun.

NIVEA Sun Brand Manager, Mbali Sithole explains, “As the world number 1 sun care brand*, and a CANSA SunSmart Choice sunscreen, NIVEA Sun has a responsibility to grow public awareness about sun protection and sun safety.

Objectives Programme:

The ‘BE SUN SMART’ objectives are threefold:

• Firstly, to make sunscreen instantly accessible when and where it is needed most, at schools
• Secondly, to make sun care part of children’s every day routine
• Thirdly, to educate children on sun safety

What better place for children to learn SunSmart habits than within the learning environment of their own school?

Gaining Momentum

With 37 schools signed up, and roughly 4 000 pupils getting UV protection at school through this programme, ‘BE SUN SMART’ is gaining momentum.

Hayleigh Bott says, “Our main goal is to make sunscreen use as necessary and routine as brushing your teeth. By instilling these habits early on, we hope to grow a generation of sun smart kids.”

Ray the Penguin – view video clip…

Cara Noble, CANSA’s Durban Care Centre Regional Manager, is in full support of the ‘BE SUN SMART’ initiative, providing educational materials for schools and providing informative talks to high school pupils, parents and teachers. “Children and parents are not yet adequately prioritising sunscreen use and sun safety behaviour – and some teens still ‘tan’. Our role is to build an understanding of what children need to do to keep themselves protected from the risk of skin cancer.”

NIVEA Sun has developed a lovable character Ray the Penguin to help bring the sun smart message home for junior school children in a fun yet educational way. A two minute animated video clip was created and has gone viral, carrying the SunSmart message.

Source: Nivea Sun Press Release

2.5 – 5% quarterly / per annum of Corporate Guru’s advertising income will be donated to CANSA. Competitions will also be run on a monthly basis.

Visit website today to list your business…

Competition of the Month:

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Afrikaanse Persvrystelling…

12 March 2015 – CANSA kicks off its Balanced Lifestyle Campaign, in March running to end April 2015. The purpose is to provide key information to proactively lead a balanced lifestyle, to reduce the cancer risk.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer control objectives are best achieved through a multi-faceted approach for reducing the risk for cancer. An expert international report recommended that food, nutrition, physical activity and body composition modify the risk of cancer.

Elize Joubert, CANSA’s CEO explains, “Diet and leading a balanced lifestyle plays a very significant role in reducing the risk of cancer, and CANSA is setting out to educate and empower South Africans with tips to make all of the difference – ahead of World Health Day on 7 April 2015.”

There are five ‘key behaviours’ characteristic of a balanced lifestyle, which can promote health & reduce the risk of cancer:

1: Eat Smart

• Eat at least five portions of fruit (in season) and vegetables daily
• Restrict salt as well as sugar and sugar-containing foods and drinks. A new WHO guideline recommends that adults and children reduce their daily intake of free sugars to less than 10% of their total energy intake
• Make starchy foods that are high in roughage and whole-grains the basis of most meals
• Eat dairy products and animal protein in moderation
• Restrict animal and saturated fats
• Drink plenty safe, clean water
• Limit intake of processed and refined foods

2: Be Physically Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight

In South Africa there is an alarming increase in the amount of overweight and obese individuals, with more than 29% of men and 56% of women classified as being overweight or obese. Classified as a chronic disease, obesity is associated with an increased risk for cancers.

Obesity in women is related with cancers of the reproductive system while in men, obesity is linked to cancer of the rectum, colon and prostate.

Research also shows that obesity is linked to cancer of the colon, kidney as well as other non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and hypertension.

• Adults: engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity, above usual activities, on five or more days of the week.
• Children and adolescents: engage in at least 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity at least five days per week.

3. Avoid Carcinogens (cancer- causing agents)

• All tobacco products are harmful to health, CANSA assists and encourages quitting tobacco use via its online CANSA eKick Butt programme.
• Limit or avoid alcohol – may lead to head and neck cancers, oesophagus, colon, liver and hormonal cancers.
• Stay safe in the sun, excessive ultraviolet exposure may cause skin cancer. Avoid the use of sunbeds and self- tanning products that contain melanotan.
• Look out for the CANSA Smart Choice and CANSA SunSmart products

4. Be Pro-Active and Take Control to Reduce Cancer Risk

• Know your family history and risks
• Know your body to recognise changes, seek professional medical consultation if symptoms persist – see warning signs cancer…
• Do regular self-examination for breast, testicular and skin cancers
• Have regular check-ups and screening tests for cancer
• Vaccinate with hepatitis B and human papilloma virus vaccines to reduce the risk of liver and cervical cancer

To find out if you are at risk for developing cancer, take this quick survey that CANSA has developed to assess your possible risk. See more tips on how to live a balanced lifestyle in CANSA’s Life is Beautiful book. Find additional info here…

5. Keep Food Safe

Unsafe food can lead to a range of health problems: diarrhoea, viral disease, reproductive and developmental problem and cancers. So food safety is essential for food security. Read more…

• Always wash your hands and sanitise surfaces when handling food
• Separate raw and cooked foods when storing in the refrigerator
• Keep food at a safe temperature
• Use safe water and always check expiry dates on bottled water
• Reheat cooked food thoroughly
• Cook food well, especially seafood and chicken

‘n Gebalanseerde Lewenstyl Sleutel tot ‘n Gesonde Lewe

English Press Release…

12 Maart 2015 – KANSA se veldtog oor die Handhawing van ‘n Gebalanseerde Lewenstyl het gedurende Maart afgeskop en duur voort tot einde April 2015. Die doel van die veldtog is om belangrike inligting weer te gee oor die handhawing van ‘n proaktiewe en gebalanseerde lewenstyl om die risiko vir kanker te verminder.

Volgens die Wêreldgesondheidsorganisasie (WGO) word die doelwitte aangaande die beheer van kanker die beste bereik deur middel van ‘n veelvoudige en omvattende benadering wat al die fasette rakende die vermindering van kankerrisiko’s insluit. ‘n Deskundige internasionale verslag dui aan dat voedsel, voeding, fisiese aktiwiteit en liggaamlike samestelling ‘n rol speel in die risiko vir kanker.

Elize Joubert, KANSA se Hoof Uitvoerende Beampte, verduidelik: “Dieet en ‘n gebalanseerde lewenstyl speel ‘n baie belangrike rol in die vermindering van die risiko van kanker en KANSA wil Suid-Afrikaners voor Wêreld Gesondheidsdag op 7 April inlig en bemagtig met wenke wat ‘n verskil kan maak.”

Daar is vyf gedragspatrone wat sleutelfaktore is vir die bevordering van gesondheid, die handhawing van ‘n gesonde lewenstyl en die vermindering van kankerrisiko:

1: Eet Slim

• Eet daagliks ten minste vyf porsies vrugte (in seisoen) en groente
• Beperk die inname van sout sowel as suiker asook voedsel en drankies wat suiker bevat. ‘n Nuwe riglyn van die WGO se aanbeveling is dat volwassenes en kinders hul daaglikse inname van suiker en produkte wat suiker bevat met meer as 10% van hul totale daaglikse energie-inname moet beperk
• Maak veselryke stysel en volgraan voedselprodukte die basis van die meeste maaltye
• Eet suiwelprodukte en proteïne van dierlike oorsprong in matigheid
• Beperk diervet en versadigde vette
• Drink genoeg skoon en veilige water
• Beperk die inname van verwerkte en verfynde kossoorte

Wees KANSA Aktief & Voel Goed Met Hope Pret Daarby…

2: Wees Fisies Aktief en Handhaaf ‘n Gesonde Gewig

In Suid-Afrika is daar ‘n onrusbarende toename in die aantal oorgewig en vetsugtige individue met meer as 29% van mans en 56% van vroue wat as oorgewig of vetsugtig geklassifiseer word. Obesiteit word geklassifiseer as ‘n kroniese siekte en word beskou as ‘n verhoogde risikofaktor vir kanker.

Obesiteit van vroue is verwant aan kanker van die oorplantingssisteem en obesiteit van mans is verwant aan kanker van die rektum, kolon, niere en prostaat.

Navorsing toon ook aan dat obesiteit verband hou met kanker van die kolon en niere, sowel as ander nie-oordraagbare siektes soos kardiovaskulêre siektes, diabetes, beroerte en hipertensie.

• Volwassenes: Doen vir ten minste 30 minute lank matige tot strawwe fisiese oefening (dit is behalwe normale aktiwiteite) op vyf of meer dae per week.
• Kinders en adolessente: doen vir ten minste 60 minute per dag matige tot strawwe fisiese oefening op ten minste vyf dae per week.

3. Vermy Karsinogene (kankerveroorsakende agente)

• Alle tabakprodukte is skadelik vir die gesondheid. KANSA help mense om op te hou rook en moedig mense ook aan om op te hou rook. Lees meer oor KANSA se aanlyn ‘eKick Butt’- program.
• Beperk of vermy alkohol – alkoholmisbruik kan kanker van die kop en nek, slukderm, dikderm, lewer en hormonale kankers veroorsaak
• Maak seker jy is veilig in die son. Oormatige blootstelling aan die son kan velkanker veroorsaak. Vermy die gebruik van sonbeddens en verbruiningsmiddels wat jou vel verbruin en wat melanotan bevat
• Kies KANSA se Smart Choice en SunSmart produkte wat jou teen sonbrand sal beskerm

Vroeë Opsporing en Gereelde Ondersoeke Belangrik

4. Wees Pro-Aktief en Neem Beheer om Jou Kankerrisiko te Verminder

• Vergewis jouself van jou familiegeskiedenis en risiko’s
• Ken jou liggaam om seker te maak jy herken veranderinge en verkry professionele mediese hulp as simptome voortduur – sien waarskuwingstekens kanker…
• Doen gereeld selfondersoeke om borskanker, testikulêre kanker en velkanker betyds op te spoor
• Gaan gereeld vir siftingstoetse en doktersondersoeke vir die vroeë opsporing van kanker
• Laat jouself inent teen hepatitis B en menslike papilloom virus om jou risiko van lewer- en servikale kanker te verminder
• Om uit te vind wat jou kankerrisiko is, gebruik hierdie vinnige beraming wat KANSA ontwikkel het om jou moontlike risiko te bepaal.
• Meer wenke oor hoe jy ‘n gebalanseerde lewenstyl kan handhaaf, is omvat in KANSA se boek Life is Beautiful boek.

5. Hou Voedsel Veilig

Onveilige kos kan tot ‘n reeks gesondheidsprobleme lei: diarree, virussiektes, reproduktiewe en ontwikkelingsprobleme en kankers. Voedselveiligheid is van die allergrootste belang. Lees meer…

• Was altyd jou hande en ontsmet oppervlaktes wanneer jy kos hanteer
• Hou rou en gekookte kos apart van mekaar in jou yskas
• Berg kos teen ‘n veilige temperatuur
• Gebruik veilige water en let op na vervaldatums by gebottelde water
• Verhit gekookte kos na behore
• Maak veral seekos en hoeder goed gaar

Unsafe food can lead to a range of health problems: diarrhoea, viral disease, reproductive and developmental problems and cancers.

See general tips below:

• Always wash your hands and sanitise surfaces when handling food
• Separate raw and cooked foods when storing in the refrigerator
• Keep food at a safe temperature
• Use safe water and always check expiry dates on bottled water
• Reheat cooked food thoroughly
• Cook food well, especially seafood and chicken

Read our ‘Keep Food Safe’ Fact Sheet & learn more about:

• 5 keys to safer food
• Safety & Storage Tips – when should you throw out?
• Reading Food Labels – understanding ‘best before / by / expiry date’ & implications
• Power Outages – when to save & when to throw out

A Balanced Lifestyle is Key to Healthy Living

Read more a balanced diet & way of life…

Diet and leading a balanced lifestyle can play a significant role in reducing your cancer risk. Research has shown that what you choose to put into your body, can impact your health positively or negatively.

CANSA recommends planning balanced meals & cutting down on and even eliminating intake of food or beverages which research has proved to increase cancer risk and / or risk for other non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and hypertension.

It is also important to choose healthy food preparation methods and to ensure that food is safe to eat & not contaminated or spoiled.

Smart vs Unhealthy Choices

CANSA recommends that you:

Do

• Eat at least five portions of fruit (in season) and vegetables daily – choose a variety of fruit and vegetables of different colours for different nutrients
• Aim for three meals per day and snack in between meals on your favourite fruit or vegetable
• Make starchy foods that are high in roughage and whole-grains the basis of most meals
• Eat more fibre, e.g. fruit and vegetables with skins included and whole-grain foods such as Bokomo Weet-Bix and Bokomo Oats (both CANSA Smart Choices) mealie pap, brown rice and sorghum
• Use Canola Oil with a high smoke point of 230 C in all food preparation. It is rich in Omega-3 and has the best ratio (2:1) of Omega-6 to Omega-3. Be Well and Continental Canola Oil are CANSA Smart Choices.
• Choose Canola Margarine products (Blossom Canola Margarine is a CANSA Smart Choice), also with the best ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 and it is trans fat free.
• Drink plenty safe, clean water – drinking enough water not only keeps you hydrated, it also helps food move through the digestive system and carries nutrients to the cells
• Drink rooibos tea, which is rich in antioxidants, low in tannin and caffeine free

Restrict or Limit

• Restrict salt – read fact sheet…
• Restrict sugar and sugar-containing foods and drinks. (A new WHO guideline recommends that adults and children reduce their daily intake of free sugars to less than 10% of their total energy intake)
• Eat dairy products and animal protein in moderation – choose low-fat milk and hormone-free dairy products (Fair Cape Free Range Rooibos Yoghurt is a CANSA Smart Choice)
• Restrict animal and saturated fats
• Limit meat and rather eat more fish, beans, lentils and soya products
• Limit your intake of processed, cured and smoked foods such as biltong, bacon, polony, ham, russians and vienna sausages
• Limit intake of processed, refined and fast foods – check labels of processed foods like confectionaries for trans fat contents (trans fats are restricted to less than 2% by law)
• If you have fruit juice, drink unsweetened, pure juice and dilute with water
• Limit intake of alcohol to no more than two standard drinks per day for men and one standard drink per day for women. A standard alcoholic drink is equal to: 340ml beer (average 5% alcohol by volume); 120ml wine; 25ml liqueur

What Does a Balanced Meal Look Like?

Discover what a healthy, balanced meal looks like; see tips regarding food preparation methods & info re other important elements of a balanced diet:

• Plan balanced meals – see eating, cooking & drinking tips: English | Afrikaans
• See poster balanced meal: English | Afrikaans
• See ‘Components CANSA Recommended Diet’ Position Statement
• Add seasonal fruit & veg to meals – see ‘Seasonal Fruit & Veg’ poster

Prepare your food by baking or steaming using a Russell Hobbs steamer (a CANSA Smart Choice) & cut down on frying and braaing. Cooking oil should not be re-used.

Recent research has shown that cooking certain meats at high temperature creates chemicals that are not present in uncooked meats. Some of these chemicals may increase the risk of cancer. High temperature cooking includes pan frying or grilling directly over an open flame. Never eat burnt meat.

• Note the dangers of meat cooked at high temperatures & find tips for a healthier braai (limit braaing to twice per week)

See health benefits of:

• Canola Oil – Health Benefits
• Honeybush Tea
• Palmitoleic Acid (Omega-7)
• Rooibos Tea
• Vitamin D

Keep Food Safe

Store food with care – use clingwrap free of harmful plasticisers, e.g. in-house products of Checkers, Pick n Pay, Shoprite and Spar, as well as the brand name product, GLAD Wrap (a CANSA Smart Choice).

Read more tips on keeping food safe…

A Balanced Lifestyle is Key to Healthy Living

Read more about the importance of living a balanced lifestyle…

25 March 2015: CANSA and Gaming for Cancer™ have teamed up to drive a new form of cancer awareness in the form of a Gaming for Cancer™ Race Day Challenge, that is set to be fun and accessible to Corporates, SME’s and all associated parties.

The Race Day Challenge serves as an effective and new age vehicle to bring together customer networking and engagement, as well as products and services, with a strong element of Corporate Social Responsibility – where cancer education, early detection and cancer support is brought to the doorstep to all participating in the Race Day Challenge.

The concept revolves around ‘Feel Good Fun’. For participating companies this activation serves as esprit de corps and an opportunity to engage with the latest virtual racing technology for home and business use, and is aptly named ‘The race against time.’

Cancer is a race against time as the cancer kills more people globally than TB, Malaria and Aids combined. The race day challenge is based on a racing game where companies and employees give a little bit of their time to participate in a race against time to become the ultimate Racing Champion, with funds raised going to CANSA.

CANSA is thrilled by the prospect of this Gaming for Cancer™ initiative which is set to ‘modernise’ traditional fundraising and awareness initiatives.

“This concept allows us to reach a new audience and help educate them about ways to reduce their cancer risk. Just as Gamers take on a challenge of conquering and playing against competitors – so do we need as many people aware of cancer and ways to conquer it. This initiative also helps us raise funds that will be allocated towards helping children and families affected by cancer,” says Elize Joubert, CANSA’s Acting CEO.

Wayne Miller, Corporate Relationship Manager for Gaming for Cancer™, notes that this idea and initiative is a result of his business partner, Johann von Backström, who had a strong vision for this. “Johann has been in the gaming industry for the past 10 years and has facilitated gaming events and local qualifiers for international events such as the FIFA Interactive World Cup, Telkom Gaming Leagues, World Cyber Games, and more. Through his line of everyday work, and having sadly lost family members to cancer, he created a vision to grow early awareness through the gaming industry in line with CANSA’s drive to enable research, educate the public and provide support to all people affected by cancer,” Miller adds.

The Gaming for Cancer™ Corporate Challenge will be structured so that companies from diverse industries will have the opportunity to participate in the corporate challenge on a monthly basis for a period of five months for the first year.

Kicking things off, is Spoor & Fisher, who will be hosting a Corporate Race Day Challenge at their office on 27 March 2015:

Other committed parties already set to host a Corporate Race Day Challenge include one of the top SA telecom brands; participants in the motor industry; Emirates airline; as well as a world class team from the legal fraternity.

The gaming industry, reaching millions of people worldwide, is a medium that can be accessed through businesses, (small, SME and corporate), schools and homes, for the able bodied, as well as disabled, and lends itself as a relatively easily accessible platform to reach South Africans.

“Electronic Sports (E-Sports) is a multi-million dollar industry, and through it, with the support of corporates getting involved as participants and sponsors, we believe it will be possible to bring CANSA’s key messaging of promoting awareness, early detection and healthy living, in a bid to reach more South Africans.

In addition, many corporates may not have specific cancer policies or programmes to support cancer survivors, and through this project we wish to bring across this message too.” Miller concludes.

Queries & Info for Corporates Wishing to Participate:

Visit the Gaming for Cancer™ Website and see updates / news on their Facebook page:

• Website
• Facebook

9 February 2015: The Absa Cape Epic is taking place from 15 to 22 March 2015, with seven teams riding in support of CANSA, an official charity for the event. The Prologue of the race starts at the base of the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town, and finishes off eight days later at Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville.

CANSA will be hosting sunscreen points at every stage of the race and offering free sunscreen to all riders and spectators. In addition to supplying sunscreen (which goes along with promoting being SunSmart to reduce the cancer risk) another important focus for CANSA at this year’s event will be to screen for skin cancer using a FotoFinder – a mole-mapping dermoscope device.

CANSA’s CEO, Elize Joubert says, “Our CANSA team will host health awareness exhibitions and offer free sunscreen at the Elgin, Worcester and Wellington stages. And we’ll be doing skin cancer mole mapping screening at the Prologue (15 March) and Grand Finale at Meerendal (22 March) with the FotoFinder. We encourage the riders and public to come and get screened and learn how to reduce your risk.”

Riders from Around Globe Supporting CANSA

The event attracts riders from all over the world, each with their own reason for taking part. CANSA has seven teams riding in support of them under the ‘CANSA Active’ group, some of whom are raising money for CANSA through online efforts leading up to the race.

For the second year in a row, Ruben Folgado and Sergio Paz, two cyclists from Spain, who have both been affected by cancer, will ride the Absa Cape Epic in support of the CANSA. Along with them will be teams from Spain, Australia and South Africa.

Gary Samuel Aaron, a cyclist from one of the Australian teams has this to say; “In 2003 my daughter, Sara, who was three years old at the time, was diagnosed with a large brain tumour. After several long surgical procedures and years of rehabilitation she is doing unbelievably well. She is 15 now and such an inspiration, she even summited Kilimanjaro with me last year. She is the reason why I am participating in this race, and doing it for CANSA.”

“For the second year, we have international riders (and more than we had previously) who are riding for CANSA in the Cape Epic. It’s amazing to see people from all over the world join the fight against cancer and support our cause. All of these riders have been affected by cancer in some way and it gives us hope to see how they inspire those around them to join the fight,” continues Joubert.

All of the CANSA Active riders are helping CANSA raise awareness about leading a balanced lifestyle, playing sport safely in the sun as well as providing education on being cancer-aware by encouraging smart choices with regards to diet and lifestyle. CANSA Active also gives riders the opportunity to participate in their favourite sporting activity or race, while raising funds online to support CANSA’s care and support to those affected by cancer.

Malignant melanoma (sometimes referred to as only melanoma) is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and currently accounts for approximately 1% of all cancer deaths. South Africa has one of the highest incidences, if not the highest, of malignant melanoma in the world as far as Caucasians are concerned. Melanoma is caused mainly by intense, occasional UV exposure (frequently leading to sunburn), especially in those who are genetically predisposed to the disease.

Cyclist, riders, runners, and anyone who partakes in outdoor sports are exposed to the sun’s UV rays, which can put them at risk for skin cancer.

Make an Online Donation Towards CANSA by Supporting Your Favourite Team:

Some of our CANSA Active teams will be raising money for CANSA through online fundraising pages they have created, leading up to the race.

• Ruben & Sergio’s fundraising page: ‘CANSA Tarraco Gladiators – Cape Epic 2015’
• Gary & Danny’s fundraising page: ‘Epic Hard Rock Challenge’
• Malcolm & Garth’s fundraising page: ‘Malcolm & Garth’s 2015 Cape Epic Adventure for CANSA’
• Erasmus and Wilbur’s fundraising page: ‘CANSA Active ABSA Cape Epic 2015 Project’

Millicent flanked by John Owens, Mr SA 2013/4, and Eddy Rust, Bachelor of the Year at Shavathon 2015

For almost nine months, Millicent Mulelu, a Sales Manager in Shell Aviation, had been in and out of hospital with constant abdominal pains accompanied by chronic diarrhoea. Doctors were baffled by the cause of her illness.

Out of desperation she went for a second opinion in September 2004. She was immediately sent to the Intensive Care Unit for three days. It was only then that her colorectal cancer was detected.The news was shattering and so began Millicent’s journey of despair.

“I was really shocked, very afraid, my world had caved in,” recalls Millicent.I said to the doctor that it couldn’t be cancer. I took care of myself, I didn’t smoke, I didn’t drink, we had no family history of cancer and I was young. There were lots of things I was doing right. It just couldn’t be!

Doctors recommended that she undergo emergency surgery to remove a fist-sized tumor, which had attached itself to her pancreas.“Two days later I went for an hour-long operation in my ascending colon. What followed was a year of chemotherapy. Nothing could have ever prepared me for the agony of chemotherapy – the depression, loss of appetite, the headaches and the constant nausea.”

Millicent’s woes didn’t end there. In October 2005, she was told by doctors that she was not responding positively to the chemotherapy and medically speaking, she only had four months to live.“I felt the world crumbling around me. I thought about death. I was very scared that I would die and leave behind my child who was only six at the time. I resigned myself to dying, but not without a fight. There was this thing inside me telling me that it was not yet time!”

Millicent then sought to learn more about her condition. She consulted other doctors, searched the Internet about fatality statistics and read cancer Survivor stories.“I went to CANSA for advice and support, where I met others living with cancer and Survivors. I empowered myself. My faith strengthened.”

As it turned out, three years later, against all odds, Millicent was blessed with a second, healthy child, who doctors had predicted would be deformed.Today Millicent is healthy, enjoying life and her work. She has not been on chemotherapy ever since, but goes for six-monthly checkups. She says although cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on one’s life and those around you, it should not be regarded as a death warrant.

“There are ways to beat the condition, but one needs to remain optimistic, resilient and NEVER GIVE UP HOPE, because only hope will see you through.”

Balanced Lifestyle Important

Reduce your risk for colorectal cancer by leading a balanced lifestyle…

31 March 2015 – red espresso®, a World First and proudly South African product that innovated rooibos tea into an espresso, has just been awarded CANSA Seal of Recognition in recognition of its unique health properties.

Naturally caffeine-free and made only from 100% pure rooibos, red espresso® is an excellent alternative to coffee for those looking to reduce or cut out caffeine. It’s a new product for a new, growing group of people who are looking for healthier choices but don’t want to give up on the café lifestyle that they love.

A regular fluid intake is needed to keep our bodies well hydrated and all bodily functions are dependent on water for operating well. Regular intake of rooibos tea not only helps keep us hydrated, but offers numerous added health benefits. Having received the CANSA Seal, red espresso® is certified as a Smart Choice enabling South Africans to make better beverage choices with the knowledge that a trusted organisation such as CANSA has extensively investigated the product and that it meets their set criteria.

In addition to being naturally caffeine-free, red espresso® concentrates the antioxidants and health benefits of rooibos tea, to a level where one serving (60ml red espresso®) equals 10 times the antioxidants of traditionally-brewed rooibos and five times the antioxidants of green tea. Rooibos tea elevates blood glutathione levels (the master antioxidant in the body) which counteracts the process of aging, the decline of the immune system, heart disease and the risk of cancer.

The CANSA Smart Choice Seal helps consumers identify products free of carcinogens and / or products with particular cancer risk reduction properties. The CANSA Seal was introduced to encourage South Africans to read product labels and to assist them in making informed choices – the aim being to promote smart, healthy, balanced lifestyles. By taking note of CANSA’s Smart Choice suggestions (including products such as red espresso®), people are making a proactive effort in reducing their cancer risk. In order to qualify for the CANSA Seal, consumer products have to pass stringent tests aligned with South African National Standards (SANS), and/or similar International Standards.

“CANSA has been promoting its Smart Choice Seal extensively and was voted the most trusted NGO in 2014 by a Readers Digest survey, which is of value to any product that receives the Seal. The product red espresso®, is a highly condensed form of rooibos containing concentrated levels of antioxidants as well as being a natural product that is deserving of this Seal,” says Elize Joubert, CEO of CANSA.

Monique Ethelston, red espresso® Marketing Director notes that creating a product that would join the ranks of others in reducing the cancer risk, was something close to the hearts of the red espresso® team. “We have spent many hours consoling people we love through the hardships of cancer. The opportunity to make a contribution, however small, to alleviating some of this heavy burden for others means a lot to us,” she added.

red espresso® capsules are available in retail units of 10 Nespresso-compatible capsules. They are available online on www.redespresso.com, at Yuppiechef, or in stores at @home, The Tea Merchant, Wellness Warehouse and Montagu Dried Fruits & Nuts.

By buying a Pink Makita Drill, you can indirectly do a small part for breast cancer screening and education.  Makita will donate a R100.00 from the price of this drill driver to CANSA towards breast cancer screening and education.

The pink lightweight and compact Makita drill driver will make short work out of tightening screws in hard to reach places such as cupboard door hinges and handles, putting screws into craft projects and countless other tasks in and around your home and office.

Stocks are limited to 150 units nationally – place your order with your nearest Makita dealer!  Promotion is valid from mid April until the end of May 2015, while stocks last.

Contact Rutherford Makita

• Website: www.makita.co.za
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/MakitaPowerToolsSA
• Contact Jean-Pierre Du Plessis at tel: 011 878 2600.