
Most cancers are preventable. This is an important message for a condition that is the public’s top health concern. Unfortunately, most people need to be made aware of the critical steps they can take to reduce their risk. And it’s not surprising, given the deluge of cancer studies and media attention we see weekly. It’s enough to perplex even the most seasoned professionals. The good news is that these basic guidelines emerge when all of this research is considered together. These include keeping a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and not smoking. While there are additional steps that can reduce the risk of some specific cancers, these behaviors provide the most significant benefit for the majority of cancers. They can also help prevent other serious chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis. It’s rarely too early to start teaching your children and grandchildren good habits for life, and it’s nearly never too late for adults to start.
- Apply sunscreen
While baking in the sun may give you a healthy-looking tan, UV rays cause skin damage that can lead to cancer. Apply sunscreen before going outside because you can burn in 15 minutes. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply after swimming or sweating. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and wraparound sunglasses when you’re out in the sun.
- Consume more broccoli
Fruits and vegetables have anti-cancer properties because they are abundant in nutrients and fiber while low in fat. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, watercress, and other cruciferous vegetables are good options. They protect against DNA damage, which can cause cells to become malignant. Alternatively, consume colored berries. According to research, they contain cancer-fighting compounds that protect cells from damage.
- Drink in moderation
If you consume too many martinis every day, your chances of developing cancer increase. Cancers of the mouth, breast, liver, esophagus, and other organs have been linked to alcohol consumption. The more you drink, the greater the risk. If you must consume alcohol, do it in moderation. Women should limit themselves to one drink daily, while males can have up to two.
- Get off the sofa
Do you spend too much time relaxing? Another reason to begin actively is cancer prevention. Exercise combats obesity and lowers hormone levels related to cancer, such as estrogen and insulin. On most days of the week, aim for 30 minutes of aerobic exercise (the kind that gets your heart racing).
- Use safer sexual practices
Sexually transmitted infections (STDs) aren’t the only thing to be concerned about during unprotected sex. Some of these infections may also raise your chances of developing cancer. Human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16 and 18 cause approximately 70% of cervical malignancies. Certain kinds of hepatitis can lead to liver cancer. To be safe, always use a latex condom when having sex.
- Lose a couple of pounds
Extra weight around your midsection may increase your risk of developing cancer, particularly of the breast, colon, uterus, pancreas, esophagus, and gallbladder. According to researchers, one reason could be that fat cells emit chemicals that promote the growth of cancer cells.
We hope this information was helpful; please let us know if you have any further cancer prevention tips.