Reducing Your Risk of Cancer: Lifestyle Changes to Avoid, Including Alcohol and Smoking
Lower Your Cancer Risk: Insights from Top Oncologists on Simple Lifestyle Changes
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Cancer, a multifaceted disease with various risk factors, can be influenced by our daily choices. Leading oncologists emphasize that making certain healthy lifestyle changes can significantly decrease the chances of cancer development. Dr. Tapan Singh Chauhan, Senior Consultant in Surgical Oncology, Robotics, GI & HPB at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, shares valuable tips to help mitigate this risk.
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Obesity has emerged as a prominent risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast, colon, kidney, and pancreatic cancer. By adopting a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity, individuals can work towards achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, thereby reducing their cancer susceptibility.
2. Quit Smoking:
Smoking remains one of the most potent carcinogens, contributing to a range of cancers, such as lung, throat, mouth, and esophageal cancers. As per expert advice, quitting smoking is paramount in lowering cancer risk and promoting overall well-being.
3. Protect Yourself from the Sun:
Shielding the skin from harmful UV rays can help prevent skin cancer. Oncologists recommend seeking shade during peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Embracing these sun protection measures is crucial for reducing skin cancer risk.
4. Practice Safe Sexual Habits:
Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), are linked to an increased risk of developing cervical and other cancers. Practicing safe sexual habits and getting vaccinated against HPV can aid in mitigating this risk.
5. Moderate Alcohol Consumption:
While moderate alcohol intake may have some health benefits, excessive or regular consumption is associated with an elevated risk of various cancers, including breast, liver, mouth, throat, and esophageal cancers. Limiting alcohol consumption can be instrumental in reducing the likelihood of cancer development.
In conclusion, the fight against cancer begins with making simple yet powerful lifestyle changes. By maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, protecting yourself from the sun, practicing safe sexual habits, and moderating alcohol consumption, individuals can proactively lower their cancer risk. Empowering ourselves with this knowledge and embracing these recommendations can pave the way for a healthier and cancer-resistant future.
