Spring marks the awakening of all things, and health preservation emphasizes that the year's plans begin in spring. Spring wellness focuses first on disease prevention and nourishment, emphasizing the concept of "birth"—aligning with the rising yang energy and nurturing it. As the first season of the year, spring transitions from cold to warmth, with sudden shifts between chilly and mild weather. This period sees the activation of warm-heat pathogens, leading to increased incidence of skin conditions and influenza.Spring brings particularly heavy dampness, and under the persistent spring rain, pain in the waist and legs becomes more frequent.
In the third month of spring, Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine hosted its "TCM Health Tour: Renowned Doctors at Your Side" event. Three distinguished experts from the hospital shared insights on health preservation during this season of budding vitality, imparting knowledge on cancer prevention during the Spring Festival, managing common springtime skin conditions, and caring for spring-related waist and leg pain.
Professor Chen Gaofeng delivering the lecture "Three 'Signs' in Daily Life That Reveal Tumor Indicators"
Cancer Incidence Increasingly Affecting Younger Populations: Experts Share 10 Key Cancer Prevention Tips
China has become the world's most cancer-affected nation, with 4.3 million new cancer cases reported in 2015. Every minute, 8 people are diagnosed with cancer.Professor Chen Gaofeng, Director of Oncology at Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, remarked at the lecture: "Cancer is no longer exclusive to the elderly. In recent years, it has shown a clear trend toward younger patients, with lymphoma, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, stomach cancer, lung cancer, and other malignant tumors increasingly affecting younger individuals. This is closely linked to environmental pollution in modern society, as well as changes in people's diets, lifestyles, and work pressures. Statistics show that cancer has become one of the top three causes of death among children under five."
A cancer diagnosis does not equate to a death sentence. We must confront this "super killer" head-on and take control of our own destiny! Daily life requires starting with lifestyle changes to proactively prevent cancer. Professor Chen Gaofeng shared 10 key pieces of advice for cancer prevention:
1. Maintain a lean body weight within the normal range;
2.Engage in 30 to 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity daily;
3. Avoid sugary drinks and limit high-calorie foods;
4. Breastfeed infants for at least 6 months;
5. Consume no more than 0.5 kg of red meat weekly and avoid processed meats;
6. Limit daily alcohol intake to 30 grams for men andand women should not exceed 15 grams;
7. Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits;
8. Limit daily salt intake to no more than 6 grams and reduce consumption of pickled foods;
9. Avoid nutritional supplements, but take folic acid during pregnancy;
10. Cancer patients should strictly follow expert nutritional advice after treatment, engage in regular physical exercise, and maintain a healthy weight.
Professor Zhu Minghua is delivering a lecture titled "Springtime Itchiness!? Learn About the Prevention and Treatment of Three Common Skin Conditions"
Experts Warn: Facial Medications Must Be Consulted with a Professional Doctor During Spring Festival
Spring brings vibrant growth, lush vegetation, and humid conditions, creating an environment where dampness invades the skin and increases susceptibility to skin diseases.Professor Zhu Minghua, Director of Dermatology at Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, highlights three common springtime skin conditions: allergic dermatitis, eczema, and urticaria. During the Spring Festival, people enjoy outdoor activities like flower viewing, but pollen and other plant components can trigger contact dermatitis and allergic reactions. The season's high humidity also makes it a peak time for eczema and hives.Professor Zhu cautions that when treating these types of dermatitis, especially on the face, self-medication should be strictly avoided. Facial skin is delicate and requires the safest medications. He emphasizes consulting a dermatologist before applying any topical treatments to the face. Additionally, he advises the public to take protective measures during outdoor outings, minimizing contact with allergens.For those spending extended periods indoors, regularly using air conditioning with dehumidification can help balance moisture levels in the air and prevent triggering eczema or hives.
Chief Physician Zhao Chuanxi, MD, is delivering a lecture titled "Heavy Dampness Causes Severe Pain: Practical Tips for Managing Back and Leg Pain"
Springtime Knee Joint Pain: Expert Advice for Protecting Your Knees
Patients with knee osteoarthritis primarily experience joint pain, locking, and functional impairment. In the early stages, symptoms may manifest only as mild discomfort during movement. As the condition progresses, pain gradually intensifies.Zhao Chuanxi, Chief Physician of Orthopedics at Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, notes that March often sees a surge in knee osteoarthritis flare-ups at outpatient clinics. This condition primarily stems from aging, excessive joint wear, obesity-induced joint overload, strenuous climbing/squatting activities, knee exposure to cold, and prolonged residence in damp environments.As spring transitions into summer, individuals should prioritize knee joint care to prevent arthritis pain. Professor Zhao emphasizes three key measures: strengthening thigh muscles to protect bones; keeping joints warm; and for overweight individuals, reducing joint load through appropriate weight loss. Additionally, selecting proper footwear, engaging in reverse-motion exercises, and maintaining a balanced diet are essential.