We can improve our life expectancy with some simple steps to prevent cancer.As we know cancer is one of the leading causes of death and morbidity worldwide, accounting for about 10 million deaths in 2020. We must spend lots of money on treating cancers, considering many of them are not even curable. So, it’s crucial to know how we can prevent it and improve our life expectancy and quality of life.
In this article, we learn about the top 8 ways to prevent cancer
1- Stop smoking to prevent cancer
Smoking is one of the major risk factors for developing various kinds of cancers. It’s crucial to know tobacco and all its forms, including electronic cigarettes and even exposure to secondhand smoke can cause cancer.
2- Eat well to prevent cancer
Consuming adequate amounts of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy foods plays a major role in preventing cancer. Limit red meat, saturated fats, and junk food. Consider visiting a nutritionist if possible.
3- Exercise regularly and have a normal weight
Being physically active helps lowering weight and reduces the risk of developing cancer. Any activity counts but aerobic exercises may have the best effects.
4- Limit alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption has been linked to different kinds of cancers. Latest studies showed that even small amounts of alcohol may increase the risk of health problems including cancers. So, try to reduce drinking alcohol to a very limited amount, if at all.
5- Use sunscreen and avoid tanning beds
Long-term exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation increases the chance of skin cancer. So, make sure to use enough sunscreen and avoid tanning beds.
6- Get vaccinated
Every day we are exposed to different kinds of infections and some of them have been linked to cancers including hepatitis and HPV, but thanks to advances in technology, there are vaccines to prevent some of these infections. So, get vaccinated as soon as possible.
7- Reduce the exposure to carcinogens
Certain chemicals such as asbestos, radon, and benzene, known as carcinogens, increase the chance of developing cancer. Therefore, it’s necessary to know these chemicals and avoid exposure to them as much as possible.
8- Get screening tests
There are various screening tests for different kinds of cancers. It’s also important to know your family’s medical history very well because the risks of developing some cancers are strongly increased if there is a positive family history. So keep in mind to visit your doctor regularly for screening tests.