Many people believe that getting cancer is purely down to genes, fate or bad luck. But through scientific research, we know that our risk actually depends on a combination of our genes, our environment and things to do with our lifestyle, which we’re more able to control.
More than 4 in 10 cancer cases could be prevented, largely through lifestyle changes, such as not smoking, keeping a healthy bodyweight, eating a healthy, balanced diet, cutting back on alcohol enjoying the sun safely, keeping active, doing what you can to avoid certain infections(such as HIV, HPV or hepatitis).
Five TIPS to reduce our risk of developing CANCER include:
- Never start smoking/tobacco consumption or stop immediately if you do. This can significantly reduce the risk of several cancers including those of mouth, throat, esophagus, lungs, stomach, pancreas, urinary bladder, kidneys, uterine cervix, colon and rectum.
- Exercise regularly. Even moderate amount of physical activity can not only reduce the risk of developing cancer but also reduce the risk of developing recurrence after treatment of cancer. Regular exercise is associated with decreased risk of breast cancer, endometrial cancer and colon cancer.
- Avoid being overweight and obese. Obesity is associated with increased risk of cancer of esophagus, breast, uterus, pancreas and colon.
- Avoid excess alcohol consumption. Alcohol intake in excess of anything more than moderate amount is associated with increased risk of cancer of liver, mouth, throat, esophagus, breast and colon.
- Limit red meat and processed meat consumption and eat a healthy diet. Processed and red meat consumption is associated with increased risk of colon cancer. A high fibre diet is associated with decreased risk of colon cancer. Consume a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and healthy proteins (pulses, beans, lentils, chicken and fish). Cut down intake of processed meat, sugary drinks and high calorie fast foods
Dr. Alok Gupta 