Risk of Cancer
While theres no guaranteed way to prevent cancer, there are certainly lifestyle choices you can make that can significantly reduce your risk. Here are 7 effective ways to reduce your risk of cancer.
Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight or obese increases your risk of many types of cancer, including breast, colon, endometrial, and kidney cancer. Aim for a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.
Eat a healthy diet
Fill your plate with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are packed with nutrients that can help protect your cells from damage. Limit processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks.
Get regular exercise
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, boost your immune system, and reduce inflammation, all of which can help lower your cancer risk.
Limit alcohol consumption
Heavy alcohol use is a risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast, mouth, and throat cancer. If you choose to drink, limit yourself to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Quit smoking
Smoking is the leading cause of preventable cancer death. If you smoke, quitting is the single most important thing you can do to reduce your cancer risk.
Get vaccinated
The HPV vaccine can help protect against cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine can help protect against liver cancer. Talk to your doctor about which vaccines are right for you.
Protect yourself from the sun
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major risk factor for skin cancer. Limit your time in the sun, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm), and wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.