Recent research from the American Cancer Society has revealed that nearly half of adult cancer deaths in the U.S. could be prevented through simple lifestyle changes. By addressing modifiable risk factors, individuals can significantly reduce their cancer risk. Here are the key lifestyle changes identified by the study.
1. Quit Smoking
Smoking is the leading preventable cause of cancer, responsible for nearly 1 in 5 cancer cases and almost a third of cancer deaths. The chemicals in cigarettes cause DNA damage and promote the growth of malignant cells, especially in the lungs, throat, and mouth .
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2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess body weight is the second largest contributor to cancer cases. It is linked to about 5% of new cases in men and nearly 11% in women, significantly affecting cancers of the endometrium, gallbladder, esophagus, liver, and kidney.
3. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption is associated with 4.7% of cancer cases in men and 6.2% in women. It increases the risk of cancers in the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, liver, and breast. Reducing alcohol intake can thus lower cancer risk and deaths considerably .
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fruits, vegetables, and fiber increases cancer risk. Consuming a diet rich in plant-based foods and whole grains helps reduce the risk of colorectal and other cancers .
5. Increase Physical Activity
Physical inactivity is linked to higher cancer risk, particularly for colon, breast, and endometrial cancers (and therefore deaths). Engaging in regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health, reducing cancer risk .
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6. Protect Your Skin from UV Radiation
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds is a major cause of skin cancers, including melanoma. Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun exposure can prevent UV radiation damage .
7. Get Vaccinated Against HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of cervical and other cancers. Vaccination against HPV can prevent infections that lead to cancer and death, particularly in younger individuals .
8. Reduce Exposure to Carcinogenic Infections
Certain infections, like Helicobacter pylori, hepatitis B and C, and HPV, increase cancer risk. Reducing exposure through vaccination, safe practices, and proper medical treatments can lower the incidence of infection-related cancers .
Conclusion
The findings underscore the significant impact of lifestyle choices on cancer risk. By making these simple yet effective changes, individuals can dramatically reduce their chances of developing cancer and subsequent deaths. As Dr. Arif Kamal from the American Cancer Society notes, “These are things that people can practically change how they live every single day to reduce their risk of cancer” .
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Sources
- “Nearly half of adult cancer deaths in the US could be prevented by making lifestyle changes, study finds.” CNN. Deidre McPhillips. July 11, 2024.
- “Nearly half of US adult cancer deaths could be prevented by lifestyle changes, study finds.” Fox 5 Atlanta. Daniel Miller, July 16, 2024.
- “Proportion and number of cancer cases and deaths attributable to potentially modifiable risk factors in the United States, 2019.” ACS Journals. Farhad Islami MD, PhD, et al. July 11, 2024.