Embracing the fear

Waiting for examinations and the results is often perceived as particularly stressful. This helps: talk to the doctors and get well informed about the disease.

Accept mood swings

Sadness, anger, despair, a need for closeness or withdrawal - these feelings can change constantly after a cancer diagnosis. Sick people often think that negative thoughts are harmful to them. But this is unfounded. You can only find your balance if you recognize and accept all your feelings.

Seek support

Sharing your feelings with your partner, family or loved ones is the greatest source of strength when you are diagnosed with cancer. Sometimes life plans also change - talk about it. A psychologist can also help. More information from German Cancer Aid and at www.krebsgesellschaft.de

Preventing cancer: sport reduces the risk by half

Exercise: Just half an hour of moderate exercise five days a week is enough to reduce the risk of cancer by up to 50 percent.

Go for a walk: For those who don't feel like going to the gym: A brisk walk around the block each day will do the trick.

Exercise: Experts recommend getting slightly out of breath and working up a sweat. This really gets your circulation going.

Sore muscles: Only exercise enough so that you don't feel any pain and have as little or no muscle soreness as possible.

See a doctor: If you haven't done any sport before, have a doctor examine you.