RHINELANDER, Wis. (WXPR) — The Wisconsin Cancer Reporting system has listed two north central counties as number one and two for getting cancer. Vilas County has the highest cancer rate, followed by Oneida County.
Reports from 2008 to 2012 show Oneida County has an incidence rate of 514.4 per 100,000 people compared to the state rate of 459.5 per 100,000. Oneida County UW-Extension Family Living Educator Sarah Richie says there’s not an explanation for the alarmingly high numbers, but says being health conscious will lower the chances of cancer and other health risks. “Eating a healthy diet rich in fruit and veggies, limiting red meat and avoiding processed meat, taking time to prepare meals from scratch using whole grains, lean proteins, beans, getting 30 minutes of exercise a day.”
Richie says nearly 75% of cancer deaths are caused by obesity and tobacco use, and while cancer can be hereditary, she says there are six cancers associated with obesity. Richie says people should visit with their doctor and schedule regular screenings and physicals.
by Miranda VanderLeest, WXPR
