Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are no guaranteed ways to prevent cancer, adopting certain habits can help reduce your risk and improve your overall health.

Here are 10 habits that you can incorporate into your lifestyle to lower your cancer risk:.

1. Avoid Tobacco

Tobacco use is a major cause of various types of cancer, including lung, mouth, throat, and cervical cancer. If you currently use tobacco products, it is essential to quit as soon as possible.

By stopping tobacco use, you can significantly decrease your chances of developing cancer.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, such as breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer. To maintain a healthy weight, focus on consuming a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity.

This can help reduce your cancer risk and improve your overall well-being.

3. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet

A healthy diet plays a crucial role in cancer prevention. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your meals. Avoid processed and red meats, as they have been associated with an increased risk of some cancers.

Additionally, limit your intake of sugary foods and beverages.

4. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity has numerous health benefits, and it can also reduce your risk of developing cancer. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week.

Incorporate activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming into your routine.

5. Protect Your Skin

Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun is essential for preventing skin cancer. Whenever you are outside, use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the peak hours of sunlight.

Avoid tanning beds, as they also increase the risk of skin cancer.

6. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of developing various types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

Men should limit themselves to two drinks per day, while women should stick to one drink per day.

7. Get Vaccinated

Some cancers are preventable through vaccination. For example, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can protect against cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancer. Additionally, the hepatitis B vaccine can help prevent liver cancer.

Speak to your doctor about the appropriate vaccines for you.

8. Regular Screening Tests

Undergoing regular screening tests can help detect cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. For example, mammograms can detect breast cancer, while colonoscopies can identify colorectal cancer.

Talk to your healthcare provider about the recommended screening tests for your age and gender.

9. Limit Exposure to Environmental Risks

Avoid or limit your exposure to environmental risks that can increase your chances of developing cancer. This includes taking precautions when handling chemicals, such as using protective equipment and following safety guidelines.

If you work in an environment with potential carcinogens, be aware of the risks and take necessary measures to protect yourself.

10. Practice Safe Sex

Engaging in safe sex practices can reduce your risk of certain types of cancer, including cervical and liver cancer. Use barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, and consider getting regular screenings for sexually transmitted infections.