Cancer is a scary word for most people. In the minds of many, cancer equates to a death sentence. And while cancer does kill millions of people every year, it’s not an automatic death sentence. There are many different types of cancer, and many of them can be treated and even cured if they’re caught early enough. One of the best ways to detect cancer early is by getting screened regularly for signs and symptoms of the disease.
But according to a new study, very few people are taking advantage of this life-saving option. Only 28% of adults in the United States reported being screened for cancer within the past year. So what are some cancer-prevention tips that doctors wish more people knew?
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Exercising Regularly
Doctors have known for years that exercise is good for overall health, but recent studies have shown that it may also play a role in cancer prevention. One large study found that people who exercised regularly had a lower risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and endometrial cancer. Other studies have shown that exercise can help prevent obesity, which is a risk factor for several types of cancer. So how does exercise help to prevent cancer?
Experts believe that it helps to improve the body’s immune system and it also reduces inflammation. Exercise has also been shown to reduce certain hormones, such as insulin and estrogen, which can contribute to the development of cancer. While more research is needed to confirm these findings, it’s clear that exercise is good for your health.
Eating Fruits And Vegetables
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is one of the best cancer-prevention tips doctors can give. Numerous studies have shown that people who eat plenty of products have a lower risk of developing cancer. Fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrients that boost health, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients work together to keep the body functioning properly and to protect cells from damage.
They also help to repair DNA and keep cell growth in check. Additionally, fruits and vegetables contain fiber, which has been shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Some great fruits and vegetables are berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage.
Wearing Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Yet, according to a recent survey, nearly half of Americans don’t regularly use sunscreen when spending time outdoors. Dermatologists say that this is a worrying trend as skin cancer rates rise. There are two main types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can damage your skin: UVA and UVB. Both types can cause cancer, but UVB rays are responsible for most cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Sunscreen blocks UV radiation, making it an essential part of any sun-safety routine. Unfortunately, many people still believe that sunscreens are toxic and can cause cancer. This is a myth that needs to be debunked.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking is the leading cause of cancer, yet so many people continue to smoke despite the well-known risks. Doctors wish more people knew that not smoking is one of the best ways to prevent cancer. Not smoking can dramatically reduce your risk of developing cancer; within just a few years of quitting, your risk of developing lung cancer drops by half. And after ten years, your risk is nearly the same as someone who has never smoked.
Quitting smoking is not easy, but it is worth it for your health. It may be difficult, but kicking the habit is one of the best things you can do for your health. If you are struggling to quit, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy or other cessation aids.
Avoid Processed Foods
Doctors and nutritionists have long urged people to avoid processed foods for a good reason. Processed foods are typically high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, all of which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. But did you know that processed foods can also increase your cancer risk?
Studies have shown that eating a diet high in processed foods can increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer, including breast cancer and colorectal cancer. So if you’re looking for a way to reduce your cancer risk, avoiding processed foods is an excellent place to start. When you cut processed foods out of your diet, you might be surprised at how much better you feel – and how much healthier you look.
Get Regular Screenings
One of the best things you can do for your health is to get regular screenings for cancer. This is something that doctors wish more people knew. Early detection is critical for cancer, and screenings can help catch the disease in its early stages. There are many different types of cancer screenings, and the best style for you will depend on your age, gender, and medical history. However, there are some general guidelines that everyone should follow.
For example, all adults should get a colonoscopy every ten years, beginning at age 50. Women should also get a mammogram every two years starting at age 50. And all adults should get a skin cancer screening at least once a year. By getting regular cancer screenings, you can drastically improve your survival chances.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Drinking alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of developing cancer. The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk. Even moderate drinkers are at a higher risk of developing cancer than those who don’t drink at all. So if you’re going to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. If you do drink, it’s essential to limit your intake.
For most people, that means no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. You should also avoid binge drinking, defined as four or more drinks in a single sitting for women and five or more drinks for men. Binge drinking can increase your risk of developing cancer even if you don’t drink often.
Conclusion
The most frustrating thing for doctors is seeing people smoke and drink alcohol despite knowing that it’s not good for their health. When cancer prevention comes up in conversation, many assume we’re talking about early detection or screenings – which are essential. But there are other ways to lower your risk of developing cancer without screenings or even with them if you have reason to think something might be wrong.
For example: avoid processed foods; get regular screening tests for colorectal cancer (colonoscopy); limit your intake of certain types of food high in sugar, salt, and fats; and don’t binge on drinks containing alcohol. These few steps can go a long way in preventing deadly cancers while also improving overall wellness.
