While some cancers are outside your control there are many which can be prevented. Although some risk factors for the disease - such as age or genetics - cannot be changed, others are within your control.
Things such as a healthy lifestyle can make a difference on the chance of developing some of the main forms of cancer. Foods, activity and even sunshine can affect the chances of getting the disease - and beating it if you do.
Elisa V. Bandera, MD, PhD and Carolyn J. Heckman, PhD, co-leaders of the Cancer Prevention and Control Research Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, together with RWJBarnabas Health, share their top tips for cancer prevention.
Eat healthy foods, get moving and minimize alcohol consumption
Eating a well-balanced diet, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy body weight have many health benefits. All three factors can reduce cancer risk and have been linked to better overall health and improved quality of life and prognosis after a cancer diagnosis.
Experts suggest adopting a lifestyle pattern that includes eating a diet of whole grains, vegetables, fruit, and beans; minimizing red and processed meat, fast foods and other processed foods high in fat, and sugars; and prioritizing physical activity to maintain a healthy body weight.
Additionally, alcohol consumption is not recommended, as it is a carcinogen and has been found to increase risk for many cancers.
Make a plan to stop smoking
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), tobacco can increase the risk for many kinds of cancer including lung, mouth, throat, cervical, blood, bladder, esophagus, stomach, pancreatic and kidney cancers.
According to charity ASH the most recent figures for the UK show that one in five (19%) of all cancers are linked to exposure to tobacco smoke. Data shows it is responsible for 64,500 new cancer cases a year and causes 27% of cancer deaths nationally.
Avoiding tobacco products and quitting smoking are major steps that can be taken to lower the risk for developing cancer. Ash has a helpful guide for those wanting to stop smoking or you can use the NHS advice which includes a Quit Smoking app.
Protect your skin from the ultraviolet (UV) rays
Exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests minimizing midday sun exposure, covering up with long sleeves, pants and a wide-brimmed hat along with applying sunscreen (SPF of at least 30) 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapplying every two hours or after sweating or swimming. Additionally, avoid artificial sources of UV exposure like tanning beds and sunlamps.
Make cancer prevention and screening part of your lifestyle
Preventative screening tests can lead to early detection of cancers, some of which, if discovered early, can be successfully treated. According to the NHS there are a number of screening services available - and not just for cancer.
Screening is available for cancers including breast, cervical and bowel. But also remember that early detection can improve your chances so if you have any concerns about changes in your body - whether it is moles on the skin or a difference in your toilet habits - then get them checked out.
