The 4th of February marks World Cancer Day 2022 – a day that unites people, communities and entire countries to raise awareness and take action. When it comes to a life-threatening disease like cancer, the first step towards its prevention is awareness.
Awareness that a disease like cancer exists and could happen to anyone and everyone. The sad fact is that one in two people will develop cancer at some point in their lives, according to the most accurate forecast to date from Cancer Research UK.
Presently, we have treatment for cancer, but the problem is that it is curable only in the initial stages. Cancer has claimed so many lives mainly because in most patients it was not diagnosed in the early stages. We all need to talk openly about it and adopt healthy habits into our lives which could help us tackle this problem at its root.
Although some of the risk factors can be avoided, others – such as growing older – cannot. Limiting your exposure to the avoidable risk factors may lower your risk of developing certain cancers.
Avoid Tobacco
Tobacco in all its forms, including exposure to second-hand smoke, has been linked to various types of cancer including lung, mouth and throat cancers. Avoiding tobacco or deciding to stop using it, is an important part of cancer prevention. If you need help quitting tobacco, ask your doctor about stop-smoking products and other strategies for quitting.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Although making healthy selections at the grocery store can’t guarantee cancer prevention, it might reduce your risk.
Reduce your consumption of saturated fat and red meats which may increase the risk of colon cancer and a more aggressive form of prostate cancer. Base your diet on fruits, vegetables and other foods from plant sources – such as whole grains and beans.
Reduce Alcohol Intake
If you choose to drink alcohol, it is recommended to do so only in moderation. The risk of various types of cancer such as breast, colon and kidney cancer, increases with the amount of alcohol you drink and the length of time you’ve been drinking regularly.
Exercise Regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight might lower the risk of cancer. Physical activity not only helps you in controlling your weight but might lower the risk of breast cancer and colon cancer.
Adults who participate in any amount of physical activity gain some health benefits. As a general goal, include at least 30 minutes of physical activity in your daily routine – and if you can do more, even better.
Protect Yourself From The Sun
Skin cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer and one of the most preventable. Don’t skimp on the sunscreen; lather on one with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Wearing clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible as well as staying in the shade can help too.
Also, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps. These are just as damaging as natural sunlight.