Cancer is sometimes caused by a combination of several factors which also includes our lifestyle choices. Knowing how our daily habits influence our long-term health helps individuals make decisions that reduces the risks of developing different forms of cancer. Some of the four harmful habits that lead to cancer are as follows:
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1. Tobacco Use
Tobacco, when smoked, chewed, or inhaled is very dangerous to the health as it contains countless toxins known to cause cancer. It is strongly associated with cancers of the:
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Lung
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Mouth, throat, and esophagus
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Bladder and kidney
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Pancreas
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Cervix
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And Many others
Prevention Tips
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Avoid the use of tobacco products.
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Seek the help of support programs such as nicotine replacement therapy or other professional guidance and supervision for quitting.
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Avoid secondhand smoking whenever and wherever possible.
2. Alcohol Usage
Alcohol is a known carcinogen. Alcohol causes DNA damage and affects the hormone which may contribute to cancer growth. Regular or excessive drinking has been linked to cancers of the:
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Breast
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Liver
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Colon and rectum
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Mouth, throat, and esophagus
Prevention Tips
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Control your amount of alcohol intake or avoid it entirely.
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Set alcohol-free days each week.
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Substitute routine drinking (e.g., after work) with healthier activities.
3. Poor Choice Of Foods
Certain food habits may increase the chance of developing cancer by promoting inflammation, affecting hormone regulation, or exposing the body to various carcinogens. Cancer causing dietary patterns often include:
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High consumption of processed or red meats
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Highly processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats
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Foods cooked at very high temperatures
Prevention Tips
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Reduce the intake of processed and red meats.
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Go for cooking methods like steaming, baking, or sautéing instead of charring or deep frying.
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Maintain a balanced diet.
- Eat more vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and lean protein.
4. Physical Inactivity
How It Contributes to Cancer
A sedentary lifestyle is associated with increased risk of several cancers, including breast, colon, and endometrial cancer. Inactivity can also lead to obesity, which further increases risk.
How to Reduce Risk
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Aim for regular physical activity—both aerobic exercise and strength training.
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Incorporate movement into daily life: take stairs, walk short distances, or engage in active hobbies.
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Reduce long periods of sitting by taking short movement breaks.
4. Excessive Sun and UV Exposure
Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation—whether from the sun or tanning beds—damages the skin cells thereby increasing the risk of:
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Basal cell carcinoma
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Squamous cell carcinoma
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Melanoma
Prevention Tips
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Avoid tanning beds.
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Use sunscreen with proper amount of SPF.
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Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing.
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Use a shade when the sun is strongest.
In conclusion, our Lifestyle and behavioral choices play a significant role in cancer risk. Of cause been aware of the fact that no particular action can guarantee prevention, combining healthier habits can significantly reduce the risks of developing many types of cancer. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comment section below and you can also check out our other Posts.
