Some things that increase cancer risk cannot be prevented, such as genetics and aging. However, there are still plenty of ways you can lower your chances of getting cancer. Lifestyle choices can make a huge difference in one’s risk of developing cancer. Here are a few cancer-prevention tips that can help you reduce your risk and live a healthier lifestyle.
Go for a Regular Check-Up
One of the best preventative ways to reduce your risk of getting cancer is to schedule a regular check-up with a healthcare provider. If you do have cancer, getting regular medical and health care will mean that a healthcare professional has a higher chance of diagnosing it early. In the early stages, cancer is easier to treat, especially cancers of the throat. Specialists like Moffitt Cancer Center detail the symptoms of throat cancer (and others, too), and their facilities are equipped with qualified medical teams who specialize in cancer. They have a variety of clinics throughout the United States, and their experts can assess your overall health, screen you for cancer, and give you advice about what to look out for.
In addition to going for regular check-ups, you can protect yourself further by getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B and Human papillomavirus (HPV). Both of which can lead to an increased risk of getting different types of cancers.
Practice Safe Sex
As mentioned above, getting certain viral infections can lead to cancer. Hepatitis B can result in liver cancer, while HPV can increase your risk of getting different types of cancers, including throat cancer and cervical cancer. Using a condom and practicing safe sex on every occasion can reduce your risk of getting certain types of cancer.
Avoid Tobacco
Most people understand the negative effects tobacco can have on your health, but not many people realize that it is the biggest risk factor for causing cancer. In the US, it causes around 480,000 deaths annually and can shorten a person’s life drastically. It doesn’t matter if you are a chain smoker or you tend to reach for a cigarette when socializing; smoking can damage your health and can increase your risk of developing at least 15 varieties of cancer.
Be Mindful About What You Eat
Studies suggest that certain foods can potentially reduce the risk of cancer while others can have the opposite effect. A balanced diet filled with nutritious foods can have a tremendous effect on your health, and it can also help reduce cancer risk. The main reason behind this is that a balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight. Consuming too much food and beverages that have been processed, or contain a lot of sugar and calories, can lead to weight gain, and obesity is the cause of 13 varieties of cancer. A healthy diet consists of healthy proteins such as chicken and beans, lots of fruit and vegetables, and whole grains.
Stay Active
As mentioned above, maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your chance of getting cancer, and exercising regularly can help you stay fit and active. As well as warding off cancer, physical activity reduces your likelihood of getting other diseases. The combination of a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help you achieve good body weight. It can also boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve your overall health and well-being.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
One of the most common types of cancer is skin cancer. You can get skin cancer from excessive exposure to the harsh rays of the sun. Luckily, there are ways you can protect your skin and decrease your risk of developing this type of cancer. Try to avoid being in the sun when it is at its strongest; stick to shaded areas instead. If you really need to go outside, protect yourself by applying and reapplying sunscreen that is at least SPF30. You may need to apply more often if you have been sweating or swimming.
A hat, a pair of sunglasses, and long-sleeved clothes can also give you added protection against the sun. Moreover, it isn’t just the sun that can damage your skin. Tanning beds can also harm your skin and are best avoided.
Watch Your Alcohol Intake
Evidence suggests that drinking alcohol excessively can increase your risk of cancer. All types of alcohol contain ethanol. When ethanol is broken down by the body, it transforms into a carcinogen called acetaldehyde. It is this toxic chemical that is said to do a lot of harm to the body and cause cancer. Not to mention, a lot of alcohol products are rich in calories, which means that consuming too much alcohol can lead to unhealthy weight gain.
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