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Hospital of Saint Raphael
1450 Chapel Street
New Haven, Connecticut 06511
(203) 789-3000
Sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth

Project Brotherhood
Healthy Habits

Healthy habits aren't just important for better health today. They're essential to helping prevent serious illnesses like cancer from developing tomorrow.

Don't Smoke. It's the single most healthy thing you can do. Saint Raphael's offers programs for those who want to quit. Call (203) 789-3131 for details. Also avoid breathing in others' second-hand smoke. And don't be shy to tell friends and family your home is a smoke-free zone.

Take control of your health Commit to needed preventive tests and check-ups.

Prostate screening by age 50 for Caucasians and Hispanics;by 45 if you're African-American.
Colorectal cancer tests by age 50 for Caucasians and Hispanics; by 45 if you're African-American.
Cholesterol checks every five years after age 35; more frequently if heart disease runs in your family.
Blood pressure checks at least every two years; more often if your numbers appear elevated, or your physician is concerned. All men 15 and older should also perform a monthly testicular exam. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer found in young men. But if detected and treated early, most cases can be cured. In fact, the survival rate is 95 percent.

Eat nutritious foods. A plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, beans and whole-grains is what most experts recommend. Shoot for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Choose lean meats, along with low-fat dairy products. Limit red meat and increase fish intake. Leave fatty, fried and high-calorie foods for special treats.

Exercise at least 30 minutes each day. If you're too busy for 30 minutes straight, break it up into three 10-minute sessions.

Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. For men, this means no more than two drinks a day. No more than one a day for women.

Always wear sunscreen. Choose a brand with an SPF of 35 or higher. During the summer, avoid long periods in the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when ultraviolet rays are strongest. Wear a hat or visor to protect your face. And remember that sunburn isn't just a summer phenomena.

Manage stress. Breathe deeply. Take a walk. Get lost in a good book. Find something that helps you relax, and do it every day. Stress can make us turn to unhealthy habits, as well as contribute to some medical conditions.

Contact the Project Brotherhood cancer screening and education program at
(203) 867-5479 or e-mail ProjectBrotherhood@srhs.org.

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Project Brotherhood Healthy Habits

Project Brotherhood
Healthy Habits