May 4, 2022

Take Steps Toward Reducing Your Risk of Cancer Today

Cancer Awareness.

Cancer affects millions of people each year, but many cancers are preventable by implementing simple lifestyle changes. Creating healthy habits will not only help prevent cancer; it will also promote good overall mental and physical health.

Some things you can start doing right now to take care of your health and prevent cancer are:

Quit Smoking

Smoking can have extremely bad effects on your overall health, but it is also commonly linked to the development of lung cancer. Smoking is the cause of around 90% of all lung cancers. So don’t start smoking, and quit if you have started.

Eat a healthy diet and get enough exercise

Obesity can play a large role in numerous health problems, including cancer. The best way to combat this is by eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins. Avoid foods that are highly processed.

It is recommended that most adults get at least thirty minutes to an hour of exercise each day. This will help keep your body fit and healthy, and it will also improve mental health.

Moderate alcohol intake

Too much alcohol consumption is linked to liver, breast, colon, rectum, mouth, and throat cancer, along with several other health problems. Generally, it is recommended that women not exceed eight drinks per week and men not exceed 15 drinks per week.

Avoid too much sun exposure

Skin cancer is often caused by UV rays from the sun or tanning beds. A recent study showed that the majority of women diagnosed with melanoma before the age of 30 had used tanning beds.

Preventing sunburn decreases your risk of developing skin cancer. Apply sunscreen before going out for the day. And make sure to regularly reapply sunscreen, especially if spending time in water or sweating. Opt for self-tanning products instead of tanning in the sun or with tanning beds.

Get vaccinated against infectious disease

Cervical, rectum, and throat cancers have been linked to human papillomavirus and hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Thankfully, there are effective vaccines that prevent someone from being infected with these viruses.

Be sure to get vaccinated and have your kids vaccinated as well.

There are certain signs and symptoms that can indicate cancer and should be addressed early on to ensure quick diagnosis and treatment.

Talk to your doctor about these possible symptoms of cancer:

Persistent cough
A new wart or mole, or a change in an existing wart or mole
A sore that does not heal over time
Change in bowel or bladder habits
Unusual bleeding or discharge
A lump or bump

These symptoms do not always indicate cancer. But it is best to bring any concerns to your doctor so that any health issue can be diagnosed and you can receive the proper treatment.