Preventing cancer is an evolving area of research, and advice can sometimes seem conflicting. However, it's widely recognized that lifestyle choices play a significant role in lowering cancer risk. Here are some key lifestyle tips that can help:

1. Avoid Tobacco

Tobacco use is linked to many cancers, including lung, mouth, throat, and pancreas. Both smoking and chewing tobacco increase cancer risk. Quitting tobacco or avoiding it altogether is a critical step toward cancer prevention. For help, speak to a healthcare provider about quitting strategies.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a nutritious diet might reduce cancer risk. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans while limiting processed meats, refined sugars, and animal fats. Moderate alcohol consumption, or none at all, is also advised, as alcohol raises the risk of cancers such as breast, liver, and colon.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight and Stay Active

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight lowers the risk of several cancers, including breast, prostate, and kidney. Regular physical activity further reduces cancer risk, particularly for breast and colon cancers. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly.

4. Protect Yourself from the Sun

Skin cancer is preventable. Stay out of direct sunlight during peak hours, wear protective clothing and sunscreen, and avoid tanning beds or sunlamps, which are harmful to the skin.

5. Get Vaccinated

Vaccination can prevent infections that lead to cancer. The Hepatitis B vaccine helps lower the risk of liver cancer, while the HPV vaccine prevents cervical and other genital cancers.

6. Avoid Risky Behaviours

Practicing safe sex and not sharing needles reduces the risk of infections that can increase cancer risk, such as HIV and HPV, both of which are linked to various cancers.

7. Get Regular Medical Care

Regular screenings and self-exams for cancers like skin, breast, colon, and cervical cancers can help detect cancer early, improving the chances of successful treatment.

By making informed lifestyle choices, individuals can significantly lower their cancer risk and improve overall well-being.

Source / Image Credit : Life Imaging FLA