Cancer Death Risk Higher Among Organ Transplant Patients

Individuals who received solid organ transplants and survived after the operation are at greater risk of dying early from cancer compared to their healthy counterparts, reveals a new Canadian study. According to the study, those who receive kidney transplant, liver transplant or other solid organ transplants are up to three times more likely to die from cancer.

As skin cancer topped the list of cancers that cause early death, researchers said patients knowing about the risks will definitely be beneficial.

"It's really important for them to get that message because there are a number of things that transplant patients can do to reduce their risk of developing and having a serious problem related to skin cancer," said Dr. Nancy Baxter of St. Michael's Hospital.

Aside from taking regular skin screening and avoiding extreme sun exposure, Dr. Baxter said patients should embrace widely accepted cancer prevention methods.

These include eating a healthy diet, losing weight, limiting the consumption of alcohol, avoiding smoking or quitting the habit, and getting regular exercise.

Source-Medindia