10 Lifestyle Changes to Help You Avoid Cancer

Cancer is a complex group of diseases with various possible causes. Some of the most common causes include genetics, exposure to various substances and environmental factors, and certain behaviors. However, it’s estimated that nearly half of all cancer cases could be prevented with lifestyle changes. Here are ten lifestyle changes you can make to help avoid cancer.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity increases your risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, lung, kidney, and liver cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight might lower the risk of various types of cancer.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet

Although making healthy selections at the grocery store and at mealtime can’t guarantee cancer prevention, it might reduce your risk. Consider these guidelines: eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, limit processed meats, and if you choose to drink alcohol, do so only in moderation.

3. Regular Exercise

Physical activity counts, too. In addition to helping you control your weight, physical activity on its own might lower the risk of breast cancer and colon cancer.

4. Don’t Use Tobacco

Using any type of tobacco puts you on a collision course with cancer. Avoiding tobacco — or deciding to stop using it — is an important part of cancer prevention.

5. Protect Yourself from the Sun

Skin cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer — and one of the most preventable. Try these tips: avoid midday sun, stay in the shade, cover exposed areas, don’t skimp on sunscreen, and avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.

6. Get Vaccinated

Cancer prevention includes protection from certain viral infections. Talk to your doctor about vaccination against Hepatitis B and Human papillomavirus (HPV).

7. Avoid Risky Behaviors

Some behaviors could lead to infections that might increase the risk of cancer. Practice safe sex and don’t share needles.

8. Regular Medical Care

Regular self-exams and screenings for various types of cancers can increase your chances of discovering cancer early when treatment is most likely to be successful.

9. Limit Alcohol

If you choose to drink alcohol, do so only in moderation. The risk of various types of cancer increases with the amount of alcohol you drink and the length of time you’ve been drinking regularly.

10. Breastfeed, If Possible

Breastfeeding might play a role in breast cancer prevention. The longer you breastfeed, the greater the protective effect.

Conclusion

Making these lifestyle changes is a step in the right direction towards cancer prevention. While it’s not a surefire guarantee, these changes can go a long way in improving your overall health and reducing your cancer risk.

Please note that this is a general guide and may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.