How to Lower Your Risk of Cancer
Nobody likes to think about the possibility of receiving a cancer diagnosis. Just the mere mention of the word “cancer” can strike fear and anxiety in one’s mind.
It’s an understandable fear. The American Cancer Society estimates approximately 1.9 million new cancer diagnoses and 608,570 cancer deaths in 2021 — that’s roughly 5,200 new cases and 1,670 deaths every day.
Many forms of cancer can be unpredictable, but some are preventable — or at least detectable early on. While the prospect of receiving a positive diagnosis may make you anxious, keep in mind these tips to improve your lifestyle and lower your risk for cancer.
Schedule regular tests and screenings.
Many forms of cancer — such as breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and skin cancer — can be detected in the early stages of the disease or even before it becomes cancerous, greatly increasing your chances of survival. Just scheduling regular tests and screenings can help give you the upper hand. Colonoscopies should be scheduled once every 10 years for adults ages 50 and older. Men should also consult their healthcare providers to regularly schedule prostate exams. Starting at age 21, women should schedule a pap smear test every three years and an HPV test every five years starting at age 30. Women ages 40 and older should also schedule a mammogram every one to two years.
Stay updated on vaccines.
Keeping yourself up-to-date on your required vaccines is another great way to prevent cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The HPV vaccine can help prevent multiple types of cancer caused by the human papillomavirus, including cervical cancer. Similarly, the hepatitis B virus results in diseases ranging from mild illnesses to liver cancer. Just by receiving your hepatitis B vaccine, you reduce your risk of cancer.
Make healthy choices.
Finally, making healthier choices will greatly reduce your risk of many different types of cancer. First, stop smoking. The CDC estimates about 40% of all cancers diagnosed in the U.S. are linked to tobacco use. The good news is these are the most preventable types of cancer — all you have to do is quit. Since 1990, an estimated 1.3 million tobacco-related cancer deaths have been avoided, according to the CDC. Quit smoking today and add years onto your life.
Other healthy choices to make include:
- Limiting your alcohol intake
- Protecting your skin with sunscreen while outdoors
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Get plenty of physical activity and exercise