Cancer kills over eight million people annually. About 14 million new cases are diagnosed each year. Most patients develop breast, lung, prostate, or colon cancer. This condition is among the leading causes of death worldwide. The good news is that one third of cancer deaths can be prevented through lifestyle changes.
Can a Healthy Lifestyle Prevent Cancer?
Research indicates that cancer is preventable. Simple lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and alcohol, maintaining a normal body weight, and exercising at least 150 minutes a week, can reduce cancer risk. A new study published by JAMA Oncology suggests that 50 percent of cancer deaths and up to 40 percent of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
This deadly disease is caused by a variety of factors, such as genetics, poor nutrition, stress, tobacco smoking, and DNA damage. Some of these factors can be controlled. Although genes play a major role in cancer development, your lifestyle choices have the biggest impact on overall health. Lack of exercise, heavy alcohol consumption, and being overweight can dramatically increase your risk of cancer.
Simple Ways to Prevent Cancer
More than half of cancer deaths can be successfully prevented. The key is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. According to the American Cancer Society, individuals who eat whole, natural foods, participate in cancer screenings, get enough exercise, and don’t use tobacco have the lowest risk. Since most cervical cancer cases are triggered by HPV, it’s recommended to get vaccinated against the Human Papilomavirus.
For non-smokers, the primary cancer risk factors that can be changed are diet, body weight, and activity level. About one third of all cancer deaths in the U.S. are linked to bad eating habits and lack of exercise. Working out a few times a week and making healthier food choices can protect against cancer and add years to your life. If you’re overweight or obese, do your best to shed those extra pounds. Even the slightest bit of weight loss can lower cancer risk.
