Health and Wellbeing
We have pulled together lots of useful information about living well and reducing your risk of diseases, including cancer.
Online Resources...
Wellbeing for Life
Wellbeing for Life is a service commissioned by Durham County Council and delivered by County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust and Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP) who have years of knowledge and experience of working and supporting local people across County Durham. The service aims to empower you to say what is important to you and to support you to make choices that will benefit you and your life.
Sun Safety
Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. Sunburn does not just happen on holiday, you can burn in the UK, even when it’s cloudy. There is no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Aim to strike a balance between protecting yourself from the sun and getting enough vitamin D from sunlight. The British Skin Foundation has developed a handy guide on how to stay safe in the sun.
Giving up smoking
Keep your home smoke free to protect you and your family’s health. If you smoke, giving up is one of the most important things you can do for your health. If you want to give up smoking it is never too late to stop. Ask your GP for advice, or contact the stop smoking service in your area. Macmillan have provided some information on the benefits of giving up smoking and support with preparing to stop.
Alcohol Reduction
Over the long term, drinking alcohol can increase your risk of serious illness, including heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, pancreatitis and seven different types of cancer. The good news is that it’s never too late to start reducing how much you drink. Cutting back on alcohol can have positive effects often within a few days. In the longer term, drinking less will reduce your risk of a number of serious health issues. Visit drinkaware for facts, advice and support and to find out if you are drinking too much.
Better Health
Healthy changes start with little changes. Whether you want to lose weight, get active or quit smoking, Better Health is here with lots of free tools and support.
Penny Brohn UK
A range of self-care resources where you will find lots of information and practical support to help you feel stronger through cancer, emotionally and physically.
Macmillan
In Your Area is an online directory of cancer support services, self-help and support groups, and fundraising events across the UK. You can also add details of local groups and organisations that may be of interest to others affected by cancer.
Healthy Living
There are lots of things you can do to improve your health and wellbeing. Small changes can reduce your risk of preventable illnesses such as cancer. This leaflet provides some advice and support, including some useful links to looking after your health and wellbeing.
Cancer Care Map
To find other services or support on this topic, visit Cancer Care Map and enter your postcode to find what is available near you.