Cancer can strike anyone at any time, but there are a few lifestyle practices you can adopt to improve your odds. Here are six essential habits to help prevent cancer.
When we hear “cancer,” we often think it’s a death sentence. There used to be a time when a cancer diagnosis meant there were no available treatments, leaving patients to suffer. Nowadays, surgeries, radiation, and other treatments can help eliminate cancer or reduce tumors, increasing survival chances.
There are also some helpful tips to reduce your cancer risk:
1. **Quit Smoking**: If you smoke, try to stop. If you don’t smoke, it’s best not to start. Smoking is a leading cause of mouth, throat, and lung cancers. Even chewing tobacco increases your risk of mouth cancer.
2. **Eat Healthy**: A diet full of vitamins and nutrients can lower your cancer risk. Fruits like blueberries and cherries, which are high in antioxidants, can especially help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
3. **Regular Check-Ups**: Visit your doctor annually for a physical examination. Blood work can help monitor your health. If there’s anything unusual, more tests can be conducted to ensure nothing serious is developing. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
4. **Limit Sugary Drinks**: High-sugar beverages can lead to endometrial cancer. Swap them for water, which boosts your energy and keeps you hydrated, especially during exercise.
5. **Drink Moderately**: If you can’t give up alcohol entirely, opt for red wine occasionally. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver cancer and other types of cancer, often undetected until advanced stages due to the lack of symptoms.
6. **Wear Sunscreen**: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays to prevent skin cancer. Look for unusual spots in shape or color. Using sunscreen with a high SPF can offer protection.
Implementing these habits can help you stay healthy and potentially avoid cancer. It’s important to keep a watch on your health and consult your doctor if you have any concerns or need further testing.
