Cancer remains one of the most dreaded diseases known to man, but the good news is that a significant portion of cancer cases can be prevented.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 43% of cancer cases can be prevented by making certain lifestyle changes. In this article, we outline some of the crucial lessons in cancer prevention that everyone should know about.

What is Cancer?

Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by the abnormal growth and spread of cells in the body, resulting in the formation of tumors.

The disease can occur in various parts of the body, including the lungs, breast, prostate, liver, and colon, among others. Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with an estimated 9.6 million people dying from the disease in 2018 alone.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #1: Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the leading causes of cancer worldwide. It increases the risk of various types of cancer, including lung, throat, mouth, esophageal, and bladder cancer, among others.

Quitting smoking is the single most important step you can take to reduce your risk of cancer. If you’re a smoker, seek help from a healthcare professional to quit smoking.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #2: Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is crucial for cancer prevention. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can reduce the risk of many types of cancer. Avoid high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sugar foods, as well as processed and red meats.

Drinking alcohol in moderation is also recommended, as excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of certain types of cancer.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #3: Exercise Regularly

Physical activity is essential for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of cancer. Regular exercise can help prevent overweight and obesity, which are linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #4: Protect Yourself from the Sun

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun is a leading cause of skin cancer.

To reduce your risk, avoid outdoor activities during peak sun hours, wear protective clothing such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, and use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #5: Stay Vaccinated

Vaccines can help prevent certain types of cancer, such as cervical and liver cancer. Make sure to stay up-to-date on your vaccinations, including the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and the hepatitis B vaccine.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #6: Avoid Harmful Chemicals

Exposure to certain chemicals can increase the risk of cancer. Avoid using or being exposed to toxic chemicals such as asbestos, benzene, and radon, among others.

If you work in an industry where exposure to harmful chemicals is unavoidable, make sure to follow safety protocols to minimize your risk.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #7: Get Screened

Screening tests can help detect cancer early when it’s more treatable.

Talk to your healthcare provider about when and how often you should be screened for different types of cancer, such as breast, cervical, colon, and prostate cancer, among others.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #8: Limit Exposure to Radiation

Exposure to radiation from sources such as X-rays and CT scans can increase the risk of cancer, especially in children. Make sure to limit your exposure to radiation by only undergoing necessary medical tests that involve radiation.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #9: Stay Away from Tobacco

Exposure to secondhand smoke from tobacco products can increase the risk of cancer, among other health problems. Make sure to stay away from tobacco products and environments where smoking is allowed.

Cancer Prevention Lesson #10: Manage Stress

Uncontrolled stress can contribute to a range of health problems, including cancer. To manage stress, engage in activities that you enjoy, such as listening to music, practicing yoga, or spending time with loved ones.

Seek professional help if you need support.

Conclusion

Reducing the risk of cancer involves making certain lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and protecting yourself from the sun, among others.

By implementing these cancer prevention lessons into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing cancer.