PREVENTION OF CANCER
Studies have determined that there are a plethora of factors that contribute to the development of various cancers. This list by no means details each one or each type of cancer. Here are a few known contributors to these types of cancer:
Cancers of the lung, mouth, larynx, bladder, kidney, cervix, esophagus, and pancreas are related to tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and snuff. Smoking alone causes one-third of all cancer deaths.
Skin cancer is related to unprotected exposure to strong sunlight.
Breast cancer risk factors include several factors: age; changes in hormone levels throughout life, such as age at first menstruation, number of pregnancies, and age at menopause; obesity; and physical activity. Some studies have also shown a connection between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of breast cancer. Also, women with a mother or sister who have had breast cancer are more likely to develop the disease themselves.
While all men are at risk for prostate cancer, several factors can increase the chances of developing the disease, such as age, race, and diet. The chance of getting prostate cancer goes up with age. Prostate cancer is more common among African-American men than among white men. (We do not yet know why this is so.) A high-fat diet may play a part in causing prostate cancer. Also, men with a father or brother who have had prostate cancer are more likely to get prostate cancer themselves.
Overall, environmental factors, defined broadly to include tobacco use, diet, and infectious diseases, as well as chemicals and radiation cause an estimated 75% of all cancer cases in the United States. Among these factors, tobacco use, unhealthy diet, and physical activity are more likely to affect personal cancer risk. Research shows that about one-third of all cancer deaths are related to dietary factors and lack of physical activity in adulthood.
Certain cancers are related to viral infections and could be prevented by behavior changes or vaccines. More than 1 million skin cancers expected to be diagnosed in 2003 could have been prevented by protection from the sun's rays.
The primary preventative measures to take in regards to decreasing your likelihood of getting cancer are:
Tobacco Free: Cessation of smoking and/or using smokeless tobacco will help reduce your chances of cancer.
Healthy Diet: This includes a high intake of fruits and vegetables, limiting fats. Many foods have proven to have anti-cancer agents and while not completely understood, cancer specialists do recognize certain foods help combat cancer (Studies regarding lycopenes have been most promising).
Active and Fit: Obesity has shown to increase your chances of cancer. Being active and eating a healthy diet will help prevent obesity, thus helping reduce cancer risk.
Environmental: Overexposure to direct sunlight, radiation, smoky environments, and some occupational environments (uses of radiation, known chemical carcinogens, etc.,) will increase your chances of cancer. Limiting your exposure to these types of environments will help you reduce your likelihood of cancer.