The President of the Pediatric Society of Ghana, Dr. Hilda Mantey Duah has advised that as part of preventing oneself from contracting cancer, contact with insecticides and pesticides should be avoided as much as possible.

According to the health expert, studies have linked such products to the development of certain cancers.

“Avoidance of contact with insecticides because some insecticides, the pesticides have been linked with cancers because there have been studies that have linked them to the development of certain cancers,” she said on the Joy SMS.

However, speaking on whether or not such products should remain available on the market despite the danger they pose, the expert explained that they are products that have been accepted by the Food and Drug Authority (FDA) upon meeting the requirements. As part of the requirement, such products must have precautionary measures displayed on them. People must then read them accordingly, she said.

Dr. Mantey Duah has therefore advised that people be moderate in the use of insecticides and pesticides, adding that they should also avoid the same where possible.

Using the mosquito sprays as an example, the expert explained that just as usually directed by inscriptions on them, people should avoid sleeping in rooms that have been sprayed immediately. She says the rooms should be vacated for a while for good ventilation.

According to her, following safety precautions will reduce the chances of contracting cancer.

“When you practice or observe the safety precautions then the chances of your exposure to cause you to have some of these cancers will go down. They are generally safe and that is why they are on the market because they have gone through approval or Food and Drugs Authority (FDA). It’s important that we observe those precautions,” she added.

Meanwhile, another source of cancer as indicated by another expert during the show, is the coloration of foods, especially by food vendors. The expert said some food vendors disclosed that it is their means of attracting more customers.

It has also been disclosed that there is no particular source of cancer. According to the experts, cancer can be gotten through various means, especially the lifestyle of people.

Therefore, they have advised people to practice a healthy lifestyle and embark on regular checkups as cancer can be contracted at any stage.