There is no guaranteed way to prevent cancer, but there are some lifestyle changes that can significantly lower your risk.
Only 5 to 10% of cancer cases can be attributed to genetic defects, according to a National Library of Medicine article, and the environment and lifestyle are the primary causes of the majority of cancers. (Pixabay)
Worldwide, cancer is the primary cause of death, and each year, more people are diagnosed with the disease. By 2040, it is anticipated that there will be 16.4 million cancer-related deaths and 29.5 million new cases of cancer annually, according to Cancer.gov. There is no surefire way to stop the development of this deadly disease, even though recent medical advancements have improved how we diagnose and treat cancer. According to experts, cancer can be brought on by bad luck, the environment, or heredity, but your environment has a significant impact on whether you develop cancer or not. Only 5 to 10% of cancer cases can be attributed to genetic defects, according to a National Library of Medicine article, and the environment and lifestyle are the primary causes of the majority of cancers. (See also: Can a woman who abstains from sexual activity still develop cervical cancer?)
According to the study, certain lifestyle factors, including cigarette smoking, alcohol use, diet (fried foods, red meat), sun exposure, exposure to pollutants from the environment, infections, stress, obesity, and inactivity are risk factors for cancer. According to the report, “the evidence suggests that of all cancer-related deaths, nearly 25 to 30 percent are due to tobacco use, up to 35 percent are linked to diet, about 15 to 20 percent are due to infections, and the remaining 25 to 30 percent are due to other factors, such as radiation, stress, physical activity, environmental pollutants, etc.”
In an interview with HT Digital, Dr. Sandeep Nayak, Senior Director, Surgical Oncology, Fortis Cancer Institute in Bengaluru, discusses ways to change your lifestyle to reduce your risk of developing cancer.
“Humanity has been plagued by cancer for centuries, and although medical advancements have greatly improved our ability to detect and treat it, preventing cancer from developing in the first place is still the most efficient way to do so. Although there is no foolproof way to prevent cancer, there are some lifestyle changes that can significantly lower your risk, “Dr. Nayak says.
Here are five methods to lessen your risk of getting cancer:
1. Continue to eat healthfully
In order to lower the risk of cancer, maintaining a healthy diet is essential. A diet low in processed foods and red meats and high in fruits and vegetables can help prevent cancer. Various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can help prevent cancer, whereas processed foods and red meat have been linked to a higher risk. It has been demonstrated that cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, as well as a diet high in these foods, are particularly effective at preventing cancer.
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2. Regular exercise
In order to lower the risk of cancer, regular exercise is crucial. Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer, among other cancers. Plan to engage in moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes each day, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Regular physical activity not only lowers the risk of cancer but also enhances general health and wellbeing, according to studies.
3. Refrain from smoking
Nearly half of all cancer deaths are caused by tobacco use, which is the leading global cause of preventable deaths. One of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of cancer is to stop smoking. Smoking has been connected to a higher risk of several other cancers, including throat, bladder, and pancreatic cancers, in addition to oral and lung cancer.
4. Consume alcohol in moderation
Numerous cancers, including breast, colon, and liver cancer, have been linked to an increased risk of alcohol abuse. It’s best to keep your alcohol consumption to no more than one drink for women and two for men per day. Aside from cancer, drinking too much alcohol can cause heart disease and liver disease, among other health issues.
5. Avoid exposure to the sun.
In order to prevent skin cancer, sun protection is crucial. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, cover up with clothing, and stay out of the sun for as long as possible during the middle of the day when the sun’s rays are strongest. It’s also crucial to pay attention to any changes in your skin and have any suspicious moles or spots examined by a dermatologist.
“No one can guarantee that you won’t get cancer, and no single action can prevent it. However, by making these changes, you can give your body a healthier environment in which to operate. Additionally, it’s critical to regularly visit a doctor and to be alert for any symptoms or signs of cancer. Making these changes and taking charge of your health can be done at any time, regardless of the time of day “Finally, Dr. Nayak says.