Top 10 Ways of Preventing Cancer by Medimanage.com

Cancer – either you have had it, may develop it at some point in time, or know someone who has had it or has it. Whether we like it or not, cancer affects each one of us directly or indirectly. Preventing cancer is easier than you may think. Through simple lifestyle changes, we can reduce our risk of developing many types of cancer.

Avoid smoking, whether it be active or passive smoking.
We hear at least a dozen times a day about the ills of cigarettes and the risks associated with smoking, including the risk of lung cancer. The reason for this is the fact that smoking is one such significant risk factor associated with cancer, which can easily be reduced. You would be surprised to know that smoking can increase your risk of developing a number of other cancers as well. Quitting the habit is much easier with the help of many rehabilitation centers, counsellors as well as websites providing the right kind of help that can help you give up the habit altogether.

Practice sun safety and recognize when skin changes occur.
Skin cancer is becoming more common, especially among young people. Wear sunscreen when outdoors, even if it is shady, and try to avoid going outdoors during the sun’s peak time, which is 10 am – 2 pm. Knowing your skin’s moles and spots is essential. Any changes you observe on your skin, need to be reported to your doctor as soon as possible.

Eat your fruits and veggies.
Fruits and vegetables, being rich in antioxidants, help in the repair of the damaged cells in the body. Especially, dark green leafy vegetables, and bright red and yellow coloured fruits and veggies, are your best bet. Also, as friuits and vegetables are good sources of antioxidants, they aid in the prevention of various types of cancers.

Watch the meats you eat, especially smoked foods.
Research suggests that a diet high in animal fat can lead to the development of certain types of cancers. A diet high in smoked foods, salted fish and meat, and pickled vegetables, can increase your risk to cancer to a large extent.

Limit your alcohol intake.
Drinking excessive amount of alcohol regularly, increases your risk of developing cancer. Studies suggest that men who consume two alcoholic drinks per day and women who have one alcoholic drink per day, significantly increase their risk to certain types of cancer. Hence it is recommended that you consume alcohol in moderation.

Be sure to keep up on screening tests like the Pap, mammograms, and DREs.
Make sure you regularly undergo health checkups and screening tests like the Pap smear and mammogram if you are a woman, and a DRE (digital rectal exam) if you are a man. The Pap and DRE can detect cellular changes before they become cancerous, and the mammogram may be able to detect breast cancer early.

Exercise for cancer prevention.

Being overweight greatly increases your risk factor for developing cancer. Hence, exercising to maintain your ideal weight is one of the best defenses against cancer. Exercising doesn’t have to be boring, you can get into dancing, brisk walking or simply playing your favourite sport that requires you to be on your toes, for instance, tennis or badminton. Being physically active would ensure flexibility of the body and lasting good health.

Know your personal and family history pertaining to cancer.
Research tells us that some types of cancers can be genetic. Knowing your family history pertaining to cancer can help you make more informed decisions about your healthcare. It can also aid in genetic testing and counseling, so that you can find out if you carry a mutated gene that increases your risks of developing cancer. To read more about Top 10 Ways of Preventing Cancer by Medimanage.com