Written by Editorial Team | Updated : October 7, 2014 4:55 PM IST
Studies suggest that men who consume two alcoholic drinks per day and women who have one alcoholic drink per day significantly increase their risk factors for certain type of cancers. Cut down on the number of drinks in a week and see your body respond positively.
It is a widely believed myth that cancer cannot be prevented. Most cancer sufferers blame their fate or consider it as their bad luck. It is true that some cancers are inherited, but most of the times cancer develops because of the choices you make throughout your life. Bad lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, eating junk food, lack of exercise and exposure to radiation are main reason why most cancers develop. Here are some changes that you can bring about in the way you live to prevent this dreadful disease:
If you have a family history of cancer, regular screening is a must. Otherwise an annual health check up will help in early diagnosis of cancer.
There are certain chemicals that are carcinogenic in nature. Constant exposure to these chemicals can increase your risk of developing cancer. Fumes, dust, chemicals like diesel exhaust, arsenic, beryllium, vinyl chloride, nickel chromates, coal products, mustard gas, and chloromethyl ethers are all carcinogens and can be found in some work environments. If you are exposed to any of these chemicals be sure to talk to your doctor about how you can stay safe.
Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day, for at least 5 days in a week. It will not only keep you fit but also reduce your risk of suffering from various types of cancer.
A number of cancers are hereditary in nature (passed on within a family). If you’re aware about your family history you can help prevent and diagnose cancer in the early stages of the disease. Cancers like breast, colon, ovarian, and possibly other types can be hereditary.
A well balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits reduces the risk of developing cancer. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, substances that repair damaged cells. Green, orange and yellow fruits and vegetables contain the highest amount of antioxidants. Some studies have also shown that fruits, like blueberries and grapes, may contain anti-cancer properties.
Don’t consider yourself safe if you don’t smoke but hang out with people who smoke. Second-hand smoke contains more than 60 carcinogens (cancer causing substances) which can increase your chances of developing cancer.
If you make a resolution to quit smoking today and stick to it, your risk of developing cancer risk will be reduced by half. Smoking is the main cause of lung cancer and oral cancer.
Several studies have shown that a diet high in animal fat increases the risk for different types of cancer, particularly colon cancer. Red meat has a higher fat content as compared to poultry or fish. A diet rich in fat also causes obesity which can also lead to a number of cancers. Substituting your red meat meal with one that is made of fish or poultry is a simple change that can help reduce your chances of getting cancer.
Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. By simply using a good sunscreen, you not only protect yourself from sun burn but also avoid exposure to UV rays and reduce the risk of cancer.
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