Stop Cancer Before It Starts: Prevention Through Lifestyle

How do we lower the chances of getting cancer? Well, there’s plenty of answers to it. While it’s true that genetics, and environmental factors, and chance play undeniable roles, research consistently shows that many cancers can be prevented, or at least their risks can be significantly reduced.

Prevention is not about eliminating risk entirely, but about tipping the balance in favour of health.

As per a report published by National Library of Medicine, “cancer is caused by both internal factors (such as inherited mutations, hormones, and immune conditions) and environmental/acquired factors (such as tobacco, diet, radiation, and infectious organisms.”

“The link between diet and cancer is revealed by the large variation in rates of specific cancers in various countries and by the observed changes in the incidence of cancer in migrating. For example, Asians have been shown to have a 25 times lower incidence of prostate cancer and a ten times lower incidence of breast cancer than do residents of Western countries, and the rates for these cancers increase substantially after Asians migrate to the West.”

Experts know that certain lifestyle choices can affect the chances of getting cancer. Let’s have a look at most impactful areas:

Tobacco Avoidance: Smoking has been connected to many types of cancer. It remains the leading cause of preventable cancer deaths worldwide. This includes cancer of the lung, throat, voice box, pancreas, bladder, cervix, and kidney. Quitting tobacco, whether cigarettes, cigars, or smokeless forms, dramatically reduces risks for lung, throat, bladder, and many other cancers.

Healthy Diet: One should focus on fruits and vegetables. As a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, provides antioxidants and nutrients that protect cells.

Limit your food high in calories, sugary drinks, and red or processed meats. It further reduces risks, particularly for colorectal cancer.

Physical Activity: Maintaining a healthy weight can strongly lower your cancer risk. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight. Physical activities also boost immune function and reduce inflammation, both protective factors.

Lower You Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with cancers of the liver, breast, mouth, and oesophagus. Moderation, or abstinence, can make a significant difference.  

Sun Protection: Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, yet it is highly preventable. Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds are simple but powerful steps.

Get Vaccinated: Viruses such as HPV and hepatitis B are linked to cervical and liver cancers. Vaccination programs have already shown success in reducing these risks.

Go For Screenings: While not strictly preventive, screenings like mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies catch cancers early, when treatment is most effective.

As per National Library of Medicine, only 5% to 10% of all cancer cases are due to genetic defects and that the remaining 90% to 95% are due to environment.

“The evidence indicates that of all cancer-related deaths, almost 25–30% are due to tobacco, as many as 30–35% are linked to diet, about 15–20% are due to infections, and the remaining percentage are due to other factors like radiation, stress, physical activity, environmental pollutants etc”.

Cancer may never be entirely preventable, but it is not inevitable. Prevention is not about perfection; it’s about progress. Your each choice adds up, creating a healthier future where fewer lives are disrupted by cancer.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.