Cancer Prevention: 6 Effective Ways to Reduce Your Risk

The 'C-word', usually refers to cancer is very scary and being diagnosed with the disease can be more scary and devastating. But, the fact is that most cancers are preventable through simple lifestyle changes – such as a healthy diet, exercise, good sleep, avoiding tobacco products -, early detection and treatment. Below are a few tips to steer clear of cancer:

Exercise:Being physically active for at-least 30 minutes daily can decrease your cancer risk. The habit will also help maintain an ideal weight, which might reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer such as - breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and kidney cancer.

Healthy Diet:Reduce your cancer risk by eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Also, limit your fat intake, especially those from animal sources. Non-vegetarians must limit their consumption of red meats. Studies suggest that intake of salty foods and food processed with salt must be taken in moderation.

Tobacco Use: The World Health Organization (WHO) says that tobacco use is the most common factor, which causes cancer. While smoking has been linked to cancer of the lungs, bladder, cervix and kidneys; chewing tobacco causes oral and pancreatic cancer.

Limit Alcohol: Set moderate a drinking limit. Doctors suggest two drinks for men and one drink for women daily should be the limit.

Sun Protection: Prolong exposure to sun can cause skin cancer. So always use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher whenever you step out in the sun. Sunscreen use alone is not enough to prevent skin cancer. So, avoid mid-day sun, avoid tanning beds, cover the exposed areas with clothes and examine your skin every month.

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Regular Medical Checkup: Studies have shown that screening for cervical, colorectal and breast cancers can help treat them before turning cancerous. Doctors say that vaccines like human papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B can help reduce cancer risk.

 

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Source-Medindia