Cancer is a type of disease where some of the body cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. According to the World Health Organization, it is also the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020.
Here are a few easy steps to lower your cancer risk:
Eating a healthy diet
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Try your best to base your diet on foods from plant resources such as whole grains and beans. Also, limit yourself from eating processed meat products.
Maintain a healthy weight
If a person is eating healthy and getting regular exercise, maintaining weight isn’t an issue. Eat lighter and leaner by choosing fewer high-calorie foods.
Avoid tobacco products
Using any kind of tobacco puts you at risk of having cancer. Use of tobacco products, whether smoking or chewing, is the reason for various types of cancer. Even if you don’t use it, being exposed to second-hand smoke may still cause lung cancer. Avoiding or stopping usage is primary to cancer prevention.
Limit alcohol consumption
The risk of various types of cancer such as colon and kidney increase with the amount of alcohol you consume and the length of time you’ve been drinking over the recommended amount. Therefore, drink moderately and consider the consequences of drinking too much on your future body and health.
Get vaccinated
Prevention of cancer also includes protection from certain viral infections. Consult your doctor about vaccination against:
- Hepatitis B – can increase the risk of having liver cancer.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – is a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to having cervical and other genital cancers as well as squamous cell cancers of the head and neck.
Protect yourself from the sun
Avoid midday sun. If can’t be avoided, use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Wear clothes that will cover your skin if it’s hot; opt for tightly woven and loose-fitting clothes.
Get regular cancer screenings
Regular self-exams and screenings of various types of cancer can increase your chances of discovering cancer early when treatment is most likely a success. Always consult your doctor and punt in the time to schedule a date for screening.
You can do a lot to avoiding and lowering your risk from different types of cancer with lifestyle choices and screening. Take the time to take care of your body and yourself. These simple actions can protect you and your family from cancer and any other diseases and aim for a healthier lifestyle.
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