Habits that must be changed to prevent cancer
We all fear cancer so much that its development spells the end of an individual’s life. Incidentally, cancer incidence is increasing around the world because as life expectancy improves, cancer rates increase and so will cancer deaths.
Statistically, the incidence of cancer and cancer deaths is higher in developing countries as their populations grow, live longer, and become increasingly susceptible to cancers associated with industrialized lifestyles. Furthermore, developing countries have the fewest resources to deal with the problem.
The WHO predicts that cancer cases are expected to increase 57% worldwide in the next 20 years, an imminent “human disaster” that will require a renewed focus on its prevention.
But the good news is that cancers can be prevented and can be prevented by acting on the basis of current medical knowledge. The disease can be addressed by addressing lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, diet, and exercise. They can also be prevented by adopting screening programs and by vaccines for cancers triggered by infections, such as cervical and liver cancers.
Lifestyle habits must be changed to prevent cancer.
There are certain lifestyle habits that must be eliminated to prevent cancer:
To smoke – Smoking cigarettes releases hundreds of toxic chemicals into the air. Of those chemicals, about 70% can cause cancer. Secondhand smoke is even said to be a cause of cancer. Cigars are even worse because a large one emits roughly the same amount of secondhand smoke as a full pack of cigarettes. There is no “safe amount” of secondhand smoke, as even low levels can be harmful.
Obesity – The extra fat tissue produces excessive amounts of estrogen and other hormones that can stimulate cell growth and proliferation, thus increasing the chances of developing cancer. Obesity can also cause chronic inflammation, which over time can damage DNA and lead to cancer. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, breast cancer in postmenopausal women, and endometrial cancer, among several others.
Exposure to sunlight – Excessive sun exposure can lead to skin cancer. Using sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer, but it should be the right type, broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, and waterproof.
Age – A quarter of new cancer cases are diagnosed in people between the ages of 65 and 74, according to the National Cancer Institute. Although it is a non-modifiable factor, there is strong evidence that a diet rich in a variety of plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans helps reduce the risk of many cancers.
Sedentary lifestyle – It can lead to the development of cancer. Scientists in Germany analyzed 43 observational studies, including more than 4 million people and nearly 70,000 cancer cases, found that an additional two hours a day of sedentary behavior was linked to an 8 percent increased risk of colon cancer. , a 10 percent increase in endometrial cancer. risk, and a 6 percent increased risk of lung cancer, even among people who were otherwise physically active.
Exposure to artificial light at night – Scientists have found that exposing our bodies to artificial light at night increases the risk of certain cancers, such as breast and prostate, that require hormones to grow. One possible explanation is that exposure to artificial light at night suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps control the sleep cycle and is also a powerful antioxidant. Lower melatonin levels are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, as there is some evidence that women, who work night shifts, have shown slightly higher rates of breast cancer.
Inability to say no to another drink. If people exceed the recommended daily limit for alcohol intake of two drinks for men and one drink for women, they are at increased risk of developing certain cancers, specifically the head and neck, esophagus, liver and breast.
Grilling or frying meats at a higher temperature – This leads to the production of HCA (heterocyclic amines) and PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), chemicals that have been shown to cause DNA changes that can increase the risk of cancer.
Inheritance – Cancer is a genetic disease, as it is caused by certain changes in the genes that control the way our cells function, especially how they grow and divide. Cancer-promoting genetic changes can be inherited from our parents if the changes are present in germ cells, which are the reproductive cells of the body (eggs and sperm). Even if there is a change that predisposes a family to cancer, not everyone who inherits it will necessarily develop cancer.
Not getting enough exercise – A large number of international research studies have shown that regular exercise, as long as it increases the heart rate, can help prevent cancer or reduce the risk of it recurring. A good goal is to exercise at least 30 minutes a day most days of the week. Moderate intensity activities, such as brisk walking, may be sufficient, although there is more benefit with higher intensity. Plus, adding some strength training at least three days a week will pay off more.
The bottom line –
If someone finds out that they have developed cancer, it will scare them terribly and shake them for life. Unfortunately, the incidence of different types of cancer is increasing around the world. In view of the current trend, it will be necessary to abandon the lifestyle habits that predispose to the development of cancer.