The thought of cancer is frightening for anyone, but, did you know there are actually ways to help prevent cancer? Even though sometimes cancer is unpredictable and not preventable there are ways to help lower your chances of getting cancer.
- Don’t Smoke
- Smoking, particularly tobacco, significantly increases your risk of various cancers, including lung, mouth, throat, voice box, pancreas, bladder, cervix, and kidney cancers. Even exposure to secondhand smoke can raise the risk of lung cancer. Chewing tobacco is also dangerous, as it has been linked to mouth and throat cancers.
- Be Active
- Maintaining an active lifestyle not only reduces your risk of certain cancers but also helps you achieve a healthy weight, which further decreases your cancer risk. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily to help protect against cancer.
- Have A Healthy Diet
- Pairing an active lifestyle with a healthy diet helps you maintain a healthy weight, which lowers your cancer risk. While a nutritious diet cannot guarantee you won't get cancer, it significantly reduces your chances.
- Protect Your Skin
- Skin cancer is one of the most common yet preventable types of cancer. Protecting your skin from strong sun rays is crucial. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid sun exposure during peak hours to drastically reduce your risk of skin cancer.
- Avoid Alcohol
- Limiting alcohol consumption can reduce your cancer risk. Regular drinking increases the risk of stomach, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. All types of alcohol have been linked to higher cancer risks, so cutting back or eliminating alcohol from your diet can be beneficial.
- Get Regular Medical Care
- While lifestyle changes can help, it's essential to get regular medical checkups. Annual visits to your doctor are crucial, especially if you have a higher cancer risk. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best preventive measures for you.
- Cancer Screenings
- Cancer screenings are essential to cancer prevention. If you are at a higher risk for any specific types of cancer it is important to discuss it with your doctor and take steps towards cancer screenings. Cancer screenings are essential for doctors to detect early signs of cancer and even early cancer diagnosis.