It is difficult to predict who will have a higher risk of cancer or high cholesterol in their lifetime. However, there are certain lifestyle choices and habits that have been identified that can increase the likelihood of developing these diseases.

Smoking and Cancer

Smoking is a known risk factor for cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking causes about 1 in 3 deaths from cancer in the United States.

Smoking has been linked to various types of cancer, including lung, throat, mouth, bladder, kidney, and pancreatic cancer. The earlier you start smoking and the more cigarettes you smoke, the higher your risk of developing cancer. Secondhand smoke can also increase the risk for developing lung cancer.

Alcohol and Cancer

Alcohol, when consumed in excess, can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. Studies have shown that alcohol consumption is a risk factor for breast, colon, liver, and throat cancer.

The more alcohol you consume, the higher your risk of developing cancer. Women who consume more than one drink per day and men who consume more than two drinks per day are considered heavy drinkers and are at a higher risk for cancer.

Unhealthy Diet and High Cholesterol

Eating a diet that is high in saturated and trans fats can increase your risk of developing high cholesterol. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Foods that are high in saturated and trans fats include processed foods, fried foods, fatty meats, and full-fat dairy products. Eating a diet that is high in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help lower cholesterol levels.

Sedentary Lifestyle and High Cholesterol

A sedentary lifestyle, or a lack of physical activity, can contribute to high cholesterol levels.

Exercise helps lower cholesterol levels by increasing the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol, in the bloodstream. HDL cholesterol helps remove “bad” cholesterol from the bloodstream. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to maintain good heart health.

Genetics and Cancer and High Cholesterol

Genetics can play a role in the likelihood of developing cancer or high cholesterol. Some genetic mutations are linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer. Similarly, some genetic mutations can contribute to high cholesterol levels.

If you have a family history of cancer or high cholesterol, it is important to discuss this with your doctor and determine appropriate screening or prevention strategies.

Gender and Cancer and High Cholesterol

Gender can also play a role in the likelihood of developing cancer or high cholesterol. Some types of cancer, such as breast and ovarian cancer, are more common in women.

Additionally, women tend to have higher cholesterol levels than men, particularly during menopause. Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to a decrease in HDL cholesterol and an increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol.

The Bell Test

To determine if you may be at risk for cancer or high cholesterol, try the Bell Test. Imagine a bell ringing every time you engage in a behavior that is associated with an increased risk of cancer or high cholesterol.

If the bell rings often, it may be time to reevaluate your lifestyle choices and habits to decrease your risk.

Taking Steps to Decrease Your Risk

If you are concerned about your risk for cancer or high cholesterol, there are steps you can take to decrease your risk.

Quitting smoking, decreasing alcohol consumption, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and discussing family history with your doctor can all contribute to a healthier lifestyle and decrease your risk of disease.

Conclusion

Cancer and high cholesterol are two common diseases that can have serious consequences.

While there is no way to guarantee that you will never develop these diseases, making healthy lifestyle choices and discussing your risk with your doctor can help decrease your risk. The Bell Test is a simple way to determine if you may be engaging in behaviors that increase your risk. Remember, it is never too late to make positive changes to your lifestyle.