Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Cancer

Cancer: A Prevalent Threat

Cancer is one of the most common terminal illnesses amongst Americans. Every third person in this country is detected with some form of malignancy during their lifetime. It has been estimated that in the current year, a staggering 1,735,350 new cancer cases will be reported (American Cancer Society, 2023). This number acts as a grim wake-up call for everyone. Instead of burying your head in the sand today and refusing to acknowledge the danger that looms large on the horizon, it is imperative to understand your risks and take proactive measures to cut them down. Protecting yourself and your loved ones from the clutches of this dreadful disease is not a complicated task. By adopting the following 10 lifestyle changes, you can keep cancerous cells at bay.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Cancer

Toss The Tobacco

Tobacco in any form—chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, hookahs, and regular cigarettes—is one of the primary instigators for the development of cancer cells. Keep away from this nasty habit and also try not to hang around places where people are smoking. This way you will avoid passive smoking, which can be just as damaging as active smoking (World Health Organization, 2022).

Re-invent Your Diet

Eating wholesome meals that are chock-full of natural, unprocessed foods containing fiber, vitamins, minerals, and good fats, is an excellent way to keep cancer a mile away. Keeping your hands off charbroiled meat, saturated fats, and red meat can help slash your risk considerably. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been linked to a reduced risk of various types of cancer (National Cancer Institute, 2023).

Move More

Physical exercise is a must when it comes to ensuring a cancer-free existence. Many forms of carcinomas, including those affecting the colon, prostate, and breasts, can be avoided by beating inertia and establishing an exercise routine. Regular physical activity can help regulate hormones and boost the immune system, further reducing cancer risks.

Banish The Excessive Pounds

Obesity acts as a stepping stone for almost all kinds of chronic illnesses, including cancer. Imbibe good eating habits and a fitness regimen you enjoy to avoid putting on too much weight. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing the risk of cancers such as breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023).

Drink Responsibly

Alcohol abuse is yet another issue that increases your chances of contracting cancer. If you must drink, stay within the limits set by physicians. The standard recommendation is 1 drink for women and 2 for men. Consuming alcohol in moderation can significantly lower your risk of liver, breast, and colorectal cancers.

Eliminate The Chances Of Radiation Exposure

Overexposure to radiations emitted by the sun, imaging equipment at medical facilities, and residential radon can make your body more susceptible to carcinomas that crop up in the skin or the lungs. Protecting your skin with sunscreen and avoiding unnecessary medical imaging can help mitigate these risks.

Steer Clear of Environmental Toxins

A group of toxins that may be found suspended in the air that you breathe or the water you drink can trigger the production of malignancy-causing cells. These include asbestos fibers, benzenes, and PCBs. Awareness and preventive measures, such as using protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation, can help reduce exposure (Environmental Protection Agency, 2023).

Stay Infection-Free

Certain infections, like those caused by the HPV virus, can set the stage for the development of cancer in the future. Take appropriate steps to sidestep such diseases. Get yourself vaccinated and practice safe sex. Vaccinations for viruses such as HPV and Hepatitis B can significantly reduce the risk of cervical and liver cancers, respectively.

Do Not Forget The Vitamin D

Getting an adequate amount of vitamin D every day has been proven to be a crucial step towards fighting off the possibility of developing a malignancy. Adequate vitamin D levels have been linked to a lower risk of colorectal cancer and may have protective effects against other types of cancer (Holick, 2023).

Try A Low Dose Of Aspirin

This tip is especially helpful for men, as aspirin may lower the probability of getting struck by colon cancer or prostate cancer. However, if you decide to take aspirin, watch out for signs of peptic ulcers, as prolonged aspirin use is known to instigate their formation. Consult your physician to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of aspirin use (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, 2023).

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