Nobody can eliminate stress completely, but there is a lot we can do to learn how to deal with it. Stress on a continuous, chronic level in our lives unequivocally causes disease. Scientific studies abound making the connection between disease — specifically cancer — and stress.

The days of having to listen to medical experts trying to convince us that there is no connection between diet, exercise, and health are gone.

And along with them are the days of saying there is no connection between body and mind, and stress and disease.

Certain personality traits are more likely to lend themselves to an increased incidence of cancer, even more so than genetics.

Poor communicators, people who don’t know how to express anger or who do not share emotions, people who are withdrawn and keep everything bottled up inside are at higher risk.

So instead of having a slew of medical tests or getting drunk, go into therapy, join a group of friends and start talking.

We are all in this life together, and the more we care and show care for each other, the more likely we are to win the war on cancer and enjoy healthier lives.

Stressful work situations, loss of jobs, financial setbacks, deaths, divorce, etc., are all contributors to setting up internal changes in our immune system and diminishing our general ability to fight off disease that lead to increased risk of cancer.

Let’s get rid of the “stiff upper lip” approach to life, and open your heart and arms. Studies have shown that hugs help improve immune system activity and protect from cancer.

So how about a group hug? Isn’t that easier than the other way around?