Cancer is a leading cause of death globally. Factors like family history and age may put you at risk of developing cancer. However, many cancers are preventable, and you may dramatically reduce your risk for some cancers by adopting healthy practices. For example, regular cancer screening Deerfield Beach can help detect your cancer early and increase your chances of successful treatment.
Also, there are several things you may do right now to protect yourself. Here are tips to prevent cancer:
- Quit smoking
You should stop smoking if you do. Smoking causes other cancers such as throat, mouth, cervical, and bladder cancer and is the biggest risk factor for lung cancer. Within minutes of stopping, your body starts to heal, and five years later, your chance of developing various cancers is decreased in half. Consult your doctor about quitting options.
Even though you do not smoke, secondhand smoke can increase your chances of developing cancer. Therefore, try to avoid secondhand smoke, and if you live with a smoker, urge them to quit.
- Exercise
Your risk for numerous cancers, including colon and breast cancer, is lowered by physical exercise. According to the American Cancer Society, adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Every week, kids and teenagers should engage in at least an hour of moderate-intensity exercise. Some low-impact exercises you may do include riding a bike, yoga, walking, golfing, and even mowing the grass.
- Keep your weight in check
It might be challenging to maintain a healthy weight, but doing so has incredible health advantages. It may help reduce prostate, breast, colon, lung, and kidney cancer risks. Therefore, if you are overweight, try to stop gaining weight. When ready for an even larger health benefit, try to lose a few more pounds.
If you want to lose weight, include movement and physical activity in your daily life and a diet high in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. In addition, eat more slowly, choose smaller servings, and minimize sugary beverages.
- Eat a healthy diet
One of the most crucial things you can do to keep healthy is to improve your diet, as some foods might affect your chance of developing cancer. The American Cancer Society advises following a healthy diet focusing on plant-based meals. Eat more fruits and vegetables daily, and limit your consumption of lunch meats and other processed meats. If you consume meat, stick to lean meats like chicken, fish, or beef.
- Limit Alcohol
Drinking alcohol increases the risk of cancer of the breast, mouth, esophagus, and liver. While moderate consumption may benefit older persons’ hearts, abstaining from alcohol is the healthiest option.
Aim to drink alcohol-free beverages at meals and gatherings and avoid gatherings where alcohol is served. Consult a healthcare provider if you believe you have an alcohol use disorder.
- Practice safe sex
You should not just worry about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) when engaging in unprotected sex. Some of these diseases can also make you more likely to get cancer. Most cervical cancers are caused by HPV strains 16 and 18. Hepatitis can sometimes lead to liver cancer. Every time you have sex, wear a latex condom for protection.
Call Life Imaging Fla to book your appointment for cancer screening.
