York
The Street Doctors - Dr Jonty, Dr George, Dr Ayan and Dr Barbara - have stepped out of their surgeries and onto the streets to treat and cure the Great British public. Their lastest stop is the historic city of York.
At York Station Dr Ayan meets young mum Rachel who is concerned about her contraception.
If you're suffering from the side effects of a hormone based contraceptive Dr Ayan advises the following. Wait a least three months to see if the symptoms settle down. If they persist consider hormone free barrier methods such as the cap or condoms. If you've completed your family talk to your doctor about sterilization.
At Newgate Market Dr Jonty meets Graham who's anxious about his family's medical history - bowel cancer.
To lower the risk of bowel cancer, Dr Jonty's advice is as follows. Reduce your intake of red meat and eat more fish, fruit and vegetables. Limit your alcohol consumption to less than three units a day. Watch your waistline - overweight people have a 30% increased risk of contracting bowel cancer. If you are concerned about any symptoms see your GP.
Dr Barbara has landed at the Air Museum and meets 15 year old Hattie, who's discovered a worrying lump.
Dr Barbara insists that all women should examine themselves routinely. First look at your breasts to spot any changes in size or skin colour. Check for skin puckering or inverted nipples. Feel all around the breast, under the collar bone and into the armpit. If you do find a lump see your GP, but be reassured that 90% of breast lumps examined by clinics are not cancerous.
Related Links
- Family Planning Association
- A confidential advice service on all areas of sexual health, including contraception and pregnancy.
- Cancer Research UK
- Provides an informative overview of the commonest cancers, alongside details of preventative measures that you can take.
- Cancerbackup
- Highly informative and site, offering support, authoritative answers to pressing questions, details and diagrams about different types of cancer and treatment information.
- Macmillan Cancer Support
- Brilliant guidance on cancer treatment and care, with equal focus for sufferers and those with affected relatives.
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Health Tips
from Dr Ayan
- Eat five portions of fruit and veg a day.
- Drink plenty of water, eight glasses a day for an adult.
- Exercise is crucial. Twenty minutes minimum, three or four times a week.
- Avoid stress by managing your time better. If you leave everything to the last minute then it creates stressful situations.
