Often, what’s known about cancer prevention is still evolving. However, it’s well-accepted that your chances of developing cancer are affected by the lifestyle choices you make.
If you’re interested in preventing cancer, take comfort in the fact that simple lifestyle changes can make a difference. Consider these cancer-prevention tips.
Don’t use tobacco
Using any type of tobacco puts you on a collision course with cancer. Smoking has been linked to various types of cancer — including cancer of the lung, mouth, throat, larynx, pancreas, bladder, cervix and kidney.
Eat a healthy diet
Base your diet on fruits, vegetables and other foods from plant sources — such as whole grains and beans.
Maintain a healthy weight and be physically active
Maintaining a healthy weight might lower the risk of various types of cancer, including cancer of the breast, prostate, lung, colon and kidney.
Protect yourself from the sun
Skin cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer — and one of the most preventable. Avoid midday sun, cover exposed areas and don’t forget to apply suncreen.
Get vaccinated.
Cancer prevention includes protection from certain viral infections. Talk to your doctor about vaccination against.
Avoid risky behaviors.
Another effective cancer prevention tactic is to avoid risky behaviours that can lead to infections that, in turn, might increase the risk of cancer. For example, practice safe sex to avoid contracting sexually transmitted infections such as HIV or HPV.
Get regular medical care.
Regular self-exams and screenings for various types of cancers — such as cancer of the skin, colon, cervix and breast — can increase your chances of discovering cancer early, when treatment is most likely to be successful. Ask your doctor about the best cancer screening schedule for you.
(Courtesy Mayo Cinic)