Cancer and its Prevention

We have all grown up hearing that ‘prevention is better than cure’ and this adage is true for cancer too.  Research has shown that only five percent of cancers are hereditary. This means that the non-inherited causes of cancer (e.g., the foods we eat, the lifestyle we choose to lead and our physical activity levels) have a direct influence on our overall cancer risk. Breast, skin, colorectal, oral, lung, rectal, testicular and cervical cancers are eight of the cancers that can be prevented.

Here are some simple tips to follow that can reduce your risk of developing these cancers:

• Eat a healthy diet: Research has shown that a diet high in fat, meats (especially red and processed) and low in fiber can increase the risk of certain cancers. It is also seen that populations consuming diets high in vegetables and fruits tend to have a lower cancer risk. A wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and pulses contain a number of nutrients, including carotenoids, fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. There is evidence of a protective effect of these nutrients for cancers such as those of the lung, colon and rectum, pancreas, breast, oral, uterine cervix, esophagus, stomach, and ovary.
• Stop smoking: Cut out on tobacco use (both chewing and smoking) completely to avoid the risk of developing oral and lung cancers.
• Exercise regularly: It has been seen that people who are physically active  have lower rates of cancer and this probably is due to the fact that exercise keeps the total body fat under check, alters the balance of certain hormones and also stimulates the immune system.
• Maintain a healthy body weight: Obesity is known to increase the risk of cancer. Maintain your body weight as close to the recommended Ideal Body Weight (IBW) by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
• Limit alcohol use: Though alcohol in moderation has shown to have some health benefits, going overboard can increase the risk of developing cancers of the liver, mouth, larynx, esophagus, and pharynx.
• Get regular screenings: Ask your  doctor as to how often you should schedule appointments and at what ages you will need to begin getting tested for certain cancers. Catching cancers at the earliest can make a huge difference in the success rate of the treatments.

Following these simple tips can help you and your family lowers the risk not only for cancer but also other diseases like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, etc.

Know more about types of cancer in men, cancer in women and childhood cancers.

For more information on diet, nutrition, health, weight loss or fitness contact DesiDieter Health and Diet Experts.