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Sunlight poured into the ward through the curtains, and Dr. Li gently pushed the door open, revealing Aunt Zhang's haggard face. "Aunt Zhang, how are you feeling lately?" Dr. Lee asked gently. Aunt Zhang barely squeezed out a smile: "It's okay, I just always feel unmotivated." Dr. Li nodded, flipped through the examination report in his hand, and frowned unconsciously.
Aunt Zhang noticed the change in Dr. Li's expression, and her heart sank: "Dr. Li, isn't it... Is my condition getting worse again?" Dr. Li took a deep breath and slowly spoke, "Aunt Zhang, your cancer cells do show signs of spreading. But don't worry, we'll adjust the treatment plan. A trace of despair flashed in Aunt Zhang's eyes, and she muttered to herself, "Why is this happening? I've been following the doctor's instructions..."
Dr. Li sat down at the bedside and comforted him softly, "Aunt Zhang, in addition to treatment, daily habits are also very important. I was recently involved in a large-scale study that found that certain habits may accelerate cancer progression. Aunt Zhang's eyes lit up and she asked eagerly, "Doctor Li, can you elaborate on it?"
Dr. Lee nodded and began to speak. The study followed 2,025 patients with early-stage cancer over a period of up to five years. The research team was surprised to find that most of the patients whose condition was prone to deterioration had three common lifestyle habits.
The first habit is to stay up late for a long time. Aunt Zhang lowered her head embarrassedly, remembering that she often suffered from insomnia due to anxiety. Dr. Lee explained that staying up late can disrupt the body's biological clock, lower immunity, and give cancer cells a chance to take advantage of it. A study by a research institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has shown that long-term sleep deprivation can lead to an increase in inflammatory factors in the body and accelerate tumor growth.
Dr. Li advised Auntie Zhang to try meditation or listen to soft music to improve her sleep quality. He also mentioned that maintaining a regular routine, going to bed before 10 p.m. and waking up at 6 a.m. every night can significantly improve the body's resistance.
The second habit is lack of exercise. Aunt Zhang recalled that after she was diagnosed, she rarely went out for activities. Dr. Lee told her that moderate exercise can strengthen her body and improve her immunity. A study at a medical university found that 3-5 times a week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise significantly reduced the risk of cancer recurrence.
Dr. Li advised Auntie Zhang to start with a walk and gradually increase the intensity of her exercise. He stressed that the movement does not have to be too intense, the key is persistence. A brisk walk of 30 minutes a day can have a good effect.
The third habit is poor diet. Aunt Zhang remembered that she had lost her appetite recently and often ate greasy food to boost her spirits. Dr Lee explains that a proper diet is essential for cancer patients. A study by an oncology hospital has shown that a high-fat, high-sugar diet can accelerate the growth of cancer cells, while fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants can inhibit tumor development.
Dr Lee advised Auntie Cheung to eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, supplement with high-quality protein in moderation, and reduce the intake of red meat and processed foods. He specifically mentioned that foods such as green tea, blueberries, and broccoli are rich in anti-cancer substances and can be consumed regularly.
After listening to Dr. Li's explanation, Aunt Zhang was thoughtful. She recalls her neighbor, Uncle Wang, who is also a cancer patient, but has always maintained an optimistic and positive attitude. Uncle Wang insists on morning exercise every day, has a light diet, and has a regular schedule and rest. Today, his condition is stable and his quality of life is high.
Aunt Zhang was determined to change her lifestyle. She asked Dr. Lee, "Is there anything else I need to pay attention to besides these three habits?" "It's also important to maintain a positive and optimistic mindset," Dr Lee said, smiling. He said that a study by a psychology school found that optimistic patients have higher activity of NK cells (an important immune cell), which is beneficial for fighting cancer.
Dr. Lee advised Auntie Cheung to participate in more social activities, such as joining a support group for cancer patients. There, she can meet some like-minded friends and encourage each other to make progress together.
After listening to this, Aunt Zhang's eyes rekindled the light of hope. She said gratefully to Dr. Lee, "Thank you, Dr. Lee. I will definitely try to change and actively cooperate with the treatment. Dr. Lee nodded with satisfaction and encouraged, "I'm sure you can do it." Remember, beating cancer is a constant battle that requires us to work together. "
Over time, Aunt Zhang's life has changed dramatically. She began to go to bed on time every day and get up early for a walk. She also organized a small reading club with a few patients to meet weekly to exchange ideas. In terms of diet, she also paid more attention to nutritional balance and quit the fried food she used to love.
Half a year later, Aunt Zhang re-examined again. When Dr. Li got the test results, a happy smile appeared on his face: "Aunt Zhang, congratulations!" Your condition has improved significantly. Aunt Zhang excitedly shook Dr. Li's hand: "Great! Really thanks for the suggestion. "
Dr. Lee shook his head, "It's all your own credit. Your perseverance and determination are the keys to defeating the disease. Aunt Zhang's eyes glistened with tears: "I finally understand how important lifestyle changes are for our cancer patients."
Dr. Li nodded, "That's right. The significance of this study is to help more patients realize this. He told Aunt Zhang that the research team is preparing a guidebook, hoping to help more cancer patients improve their lifestyle habits and improve their quality of life.
Aunt Zhang said excitedly, "Dr. Li, I also want to contribute to this research. I can write down my experiences and maybe give some inspiration to other patients. Dr. Lee readily agreed, "It's a good idea." Your personal experience is sure to give hope to many people. "
When she left the hospital, Aunt Zhang's steps were much lighter than when she came. She took a deep breath of fresh air and felt the beauty of life. She knows that there is still a long way to go, but as long as she maintains good habits and a positive and optimistic attitude, she will definitely be able to overcome the disease and regain her health.
This study not only points the way for cancer patients, but also provides valuable data for the medical community. It reminds us that in addition to advanced medical technology, a healthy lifestyle is also indispensable in the fight against cancer. Everyone is the first person responsible for their own health, and by changing bad habits, we can greatly improve the effectiveness of treatment and improve the quality of life.
As Dr Lee said, beating cancer is a constant battle. It requires the joint efforts of both doctors and patients, and the attention and support of all sectors of society. With the deepening of research and the advancement of treatment methods, it is believed that more and more cancer patients will embrace a better life like Aunt Zhang.
This story teaches us to never give up hope in the face of illness. By adjusting our lifestyle and maintaining a positive mindset, it is entirely possible for us to do wonders. Every small change can be a crucial step in the fight against cancer. Let us work together for health and life.