Tips for Cancer Prevention
Tips for Cancer Prevention
The second leading cause of death in the United States, cancer is expected to kill approximately 564,800 Americans in 2015. Sadly, a large percentage of these deaths could be prevented through simple lifestyle changes that promote better health. If you'd like to lower your risk and improve your overall well-being, learn the most effective tips for cancer prevention
Ways to Prevent Cancer
Every day, researchers learn more and more about the ways cancers form and spread in the human body. While there's still much to know, experts have identified key ways we can drastically reduce our risk. These include:
- Avoid Tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco have been linked to a myriad of cancers, including bladder, lung, oral, cervix, kidney and pancreatic.
- Eat Fruits and Vegetables: Studies suggest these foods contain powerful antioxidant compounds which protect our bodies from cancer.
- Avoid Fat: Research has linked high-fat diets with an increased risk of various forms of cancer.
- Drink in Moderation: Alcohol consumption increases the risk for cancer of the lung, breast, colon, liver and kidneys.
- Stay Active: Numerous studies have shown that regular exercise can significantly reduce a person's risk of developing cancer.
- Stay Fit: Obesity significantly increases a person's risk of developing various forms of cancer.
- Avoid the Sun: Each year, thousands of Americans die from melanoma. To reduce your risk, avoid mid-day sun and use generous amounts of sunscreen.
Vaccinations
These days, you can reduce your risk of specific types of cancers by getting immunized. Because Hepatitis B increases a person's risk of developing liver cancer, doctors recommend that high-risk adults get vaccinated. These include adults who are sexually active outside monogamous relationships, along with intravenous drug users and homosexual men. Doctors also recommend that men and women under the age of 26 get the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to reduce their risk of developing oral, cervical and genital cancers.
The Value of Early Detection
When it comes to treating cancer, early detection can be the difference between life and death. To make sure you catch potential problems before they become deadly, conduct regular self-exams and seek screenings for cancers of the prostate, colon, skin, breast and cervix. Likewise, if you notice any strange symptoms, get an evaluation from your physician to ensure that your health is in good condition and no underlying problems exists.