Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with an estimated 9.6 million people dying from it in 2018 alone.

Although some people may be more genetically predisposed to cancer than others, there are many lifestyle habits one can adopt to reduce their risk of developing cancer. Here are 30 simple ways to prevent cancer:.

1. Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the main causes of several types of cancer, including lung, throat, and bladder cancer. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of developing cancer, as well as improve your overall health.

2. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to several types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colon cancer. Limiting or avoiding alcohol can help reduce your risk of cancer.

3. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help reduce your risk of developing cancer. Aim to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

4. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese increases your risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and kidney cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent cancer.

5. Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce your risk of cancer. Aim to eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods and limit your intake of processed and unhealthy foods.

6. Get Enough Sleep

A lack of sleep can affect your body’s ability to repair and regenerate itself, increasing your risk of cancer. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

7. Protect Your Skin

Exposure to UV radiation from the sun or other sources, such as tanning beds, can increase your risk of skin cancer. Protect your skin by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and avoiding tanning beds.

8. Get Screened for Cancer

Screening tests can help detect cancer early, when it is most treatable. Speak to your doctor about recommended screening tests for your age and gender.

9. Practice Safe Sex

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HPV can increase your risk of cervical, anal, and oral cancers. Practicing safe sex by using condoms and getting vaccinated against HPV can help reduce your risk.

10. Reduce Stress

Chronic stress can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of cancer. Find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or talking to a therapist.

11. Avoid Carcinogens

Certain substances, such as asbestos and benzene, have been linked to cancer. Avoid exposure to carcinogens in your workplace and home whenever possible.

12. Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated can help flush toxins from your body and reduce your risk of cancer. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

13. Get Vaccinated

Vaccines can help prevent certain types of cancer, such as cervical cancer and liver cancer. Speak to your doctor about recommended vaccines based on your age and health history.

14. Limit Processed Meats

Processed meats, such as bacon and hot dogs, have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Limit your intake of processed meats and opt for lean proteins instead.

15. Don’t Use Tobacco Products

In addition to smoking, other tobacco products such as chewing tobacco and snuff can increase your risk of cancer. Avoid using any tobacco products.

16. Choose Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

Many household cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that have been linked to cancer. Choose non-toxic cleaning products whenever possible.

17. Eat More Fiber

Fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. Aim for at least 30 grams of fiber per day.

18. Limit Exposure to Radiation

Exposure to high levels of radiation, such as from medical imaging tests or nuclear accidents, can increase your risk of several types of cancer. Limit exposure to radiation whenever possible.

19. Take Care of Your Oral Health

Poor oral health, such as gum disease, has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including oral cancer. Practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly.

20. Avoid Pesticides

Pesticides, used commonly in agriculture and gardening, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Choose organic produce whenever possible and avoid pesticide use in your home and garden.

21. Practice Safe Work Habits

Certain occupations, such as those that involve exposure to chemicals or radiation, carry a higher risk of cancer. Practice safe work habits and wear protective gear when necessary.

22. Breastfeed Your Baby

Women who breastfeed their babies may have a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Aim to breastfeed for at least 6 months.

23. Maintain a Healthy Immune System

A health immune system is key to preventing cancer. Maintain a healthy immune system by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding stress.

24. Volunteer and Help Others

Volunteering and helping others has been linked to a reduced risk of several types of cancer. Find ways to give back to your community and help others.

25. Limit Exposure to Environmental Toxins

Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pollution and industrial chemicals, has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Limit exposure to these toxins whenever possible.

26. Don’t Drink Sugary Beverages

Drinking sugary beverages, such as soda and sports drinks, has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer. Choose water or other low-sugar beverages instead.

27. Maintain a Positive Attitude

A positive attitude can help reduce stress and improve overall health, which may help prevent cancer. Find ways to stay positive, such as practicing gratitude or spending time with loved ones.

28. Get Enough Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a role in cancer prevention, as well as bone health and immune function. Get enough vitamin D through sunlight exposure or a supplement.

29. Get Enough Vitamin C

Like vitamin D, vitamin C also plays a role in cancer prevention and immune function. Get enough vitamin C through foods such as citrus fruits and bell peppers, or a supplement.