Healthy Houston
HealthCo Pharmacy
8604 MLK Jr. Blvd Houston, TX 77033 • 713-640-5575
www.HealthCoPharmacy.com
Beating cancer with early
detection and prevention
A
ccording to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), cancer incidence
and death rates are falling. Experts credit better screenings, treatments
and prevention for contributing to the decline.
Cancer occurs when abnormal cells accumulate in the body, forming growths
called tumors. Typically concentrating in a specific area, many tumors form
without producing pain. Fortunately, paying close attention to your body can
help you detect the subtle signs of cancer early. While, some medications and
non-cancerous conditions also produce these symptoms, it is crucial that you
tell your doctor immediately if you notice any of these changes:
• A thickening or lump in the body
• Lingering hoarseness or cough
• Unexplainable weight gain or loss
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits
• Weakness or fatigue
• Discomfort after eating
• Unusual bleeding or discharge
• Difficulty swallowing
• A sore that won’t heal
Though usually striking people over 50, cancer can appear at any age. The
good news is that there are many controllable lifestyle choices that may reduce
your risk of getting the disease. Most importantly, never use tobacco or expose
yourself to second-hand smoke.
Protect skin from sunburns caused
by the ultra-violet (UV) rays of the
sun and tanning booths. Follow
work and safety guidelines, avoiding
contact with chemicals, metals
and pesticides. Drink no more
than 1-2 alcoholic beverages per
day. Maintain a healthy weight
continued on back 
Mango Salsa
Savory homemade mango salsa makes a
refreshing switch from the everyday
jarred tomato variety. If you favor more
heat, try adding a finely chopped half of
a seeded jalapeno. Serves two.
• 1 mango, peeled and chopped
• 1 scallion, finely chopped
• 1/2 small red pepper, finely chopped
• Juice of half a lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
1. Combine chopped mango, scallion, red
pepper; season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Chill in refrigerator for at least 15 minutes
to allow flavors to come together.
3. Serve with tortilla chips.
Sydney Oland has a Professional Chef ’s
diploma from Cambridge School of Culinary
Arts and is currently pursuing an M.A. in
gastronomy at Boston University. She is a
regular at many of her local farmers’ markets.
continued from front 
by eating natural, unprocessed foods.
And, be physically active.
Finally, ask your local pharmacist
about the medications you take. Some
may include chemicals that could
increase your risk of getting cancer.
Combining these recommendations,
you’re likely to enjoy added peace of
mind and wellness that will pay off
at any age.like adding a salad full of
different color vegetables to your diet
once a day or switching from butter
to olive oil when cooking. As your
small changes become habit you can
continue to add more healthy choices
to your diet.
Every change you make to improve
your diet matters.
Our services
• Delivery Available
• Specialty Packaging - We’ll
organize your medicines
• Custom Medication
Compounding
• Medication Therapy Reviews
- Get the most from your
meds
• FREE Blood Pressure
Screenings
• Wide Selection of Over-theCounter Items
The right foods help
reduce cancer risks
K
nowing what you’re eating is crucial in guarding against cancer.
Avoid foods containing pesticides, additives, preservatives, artificial
hormones and dyes. When possible, buy organic food from local
farmers who can tell you about their products. And, follow these guidelines
to boost your body’s immune system.
Avoid:
Include:
• Processed foods containing trans fats, • Organic fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts
MSG and other artificial ingredients
and grains
• Charred meats
• Variety of colors to vary nutrients
• Meats containing nitrates
• Added vitamins your doctor or
or hormones
pharmacist recommends
• Additives like Aspertame
Screenings catch
cancer early
T
hanks in part to screenings that reveal the first signs of cancer, more
people are surviving the disease. With physical exams, laboratory
tests and tests to examine internal organs, your doctor can screen
your body when no symptoms are present.
This provides an important record of your
healthy body, so any changes that may appear
are more noticeable. Recommendations vary
based on age, gender, family history and
lifestyle. So, it’s important to ask your doctor
which screenings are best for you.
It’s easy to transfer your prescriptions!
Just call us or bring in your prescription bottle.
We’ll do the rest! All major insurance plans accepted.
10
$
OFF
a Purchase with a Transferred Prescription
713-640-5575
See store for details. Limit one per customer. No
cash/credit back. Not valid on state or federally
funded plans, co-pays or with any other offer.
Void where prohibited.
A2063