To prevent cancer, several effective strategies focus on lifestyle choices and protective measures:
- Avoid all forms of tobacco and exposure to secondhand smoke, as tobacco use is the leading cause of cancer.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans while limiting red and processed meats, saturated fats, and sugary drinks.
- Maintain a healthy weight through calorie control and regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week).
- Limit alcohol consumption, ideally to one drink a day or less, since alcohol increases the risk of several cancers.
- Protect your skin from ultraviolet rays by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, avoiding tanning beds, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours.
- Avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation and environmental toxins such as asbestos and benzene.
- Get vaccinated against cancer-related infections like human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B.
- Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles to reduce infections linked to cancer.
- Prioritize quality sleep and manage stress, which may indirectly affect cancer risk.
- Get regular medical check-ups and screenings to detect cancer early when treatment is most effective.
These recommendations, supported by multiple health organizations including Harvard Health, Mayo Clinic, Canadian Cancer Society, Cancer Research UK, and World Cancer Research Fund, can reduce the risk of about 40% of cancer cases through healthy living and preventive measures.