Cancer is a major health issue in the United States, affecting about one in three Americans during their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While genetics plays a role in cancer development, lifestyle factors have been shown to be equally or even more important. In this article, we’ll discuss some cancer prevention strategies that you may not know about.
Check Your Vitamin D Levels
Vitamin D is essential for many bodily functions, including bone health, but it may also play a role in cancer prevention. According to the Nurses’ Health Study, women with higher levels of vitamin D had a 50% lower risk of developing breast cancer. If you’re deficient in vitamin D, which is common in many people, you may need a supplement. Ask your doctor to check your vitamin D levels and recommend a supplement dosage if necessary.
Stand Up More
Sitting for prolonged periods has been linked to several health issues, including an increased risk of cancer. A study found that every two-hour increase in sitting time was associated with an 8% higher risk of colon cancer and a 10% higher risk of endometrial cancer. To reduce your cancer risk, try to stand up and move around more throughout the day. Consider using a standing desk or taking frequent breaks to stretch and walk around.
Avoid Barbequed or Fried Meats
Cooking meat over high temperatures, such as on a grill or in a frying pan, can create chemicals that may increase cancer risk. The American Cancer Society recommends limiting your intake of barbequed or fried meats. Instead, try healthier cooking methods, such as baking or broiling, and choose lean cuts of meat.
Check Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can seep into homes and increase the risk of lung cancer. About one in 15 U.S. homes has elevated levels of radon, making it the second most common cause of lung cancer after smoking. To reduce your risk, have your home’s indoor air quality tested for radon. If high levels are found, hire a professional to install a radon mitigation system.
Drink Caffeinated Beverages
Drinking green or black tea and coffee may help protect against DNA damage that can lead to cancer. Studies show that the antioxidants in these beverages have a protective effect. One study found that women who drank at least three cups of tea per day had a 37% lower risk of breast cancer. Another study found that men who drank at least two cups of coffee per day had a 12% lower risk of prostate cancer.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Even light to moderate drinking can increase the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colon cancer. One study found that women who drank one to two alcoholic drinks per day had a 30% to 50% higher risk of breast cancer compared to non-drinkers. To reduce your risk of cancer, limit your alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Conclusion
Cancer prevention is essential for maintaining good health, and there are many strategies that you can implement in your daily life to reduce your risk. By checking your vitamin D levels, standing up more, avoiding barbequed or fried meats, checking your home’s indoor air quality, drinking caffeinated beverages, and limiting your alcohol consumption, you can take important steps towards cancer prevention. Make these lifestyle changes today to protect your health and reduce your risk of developing cancer in the future.
source: ivanhoe.com