Each of us is so afraid of cancer that its development means the end of life for the individual. By the way, the incidence of cancer is increasing all over the world because as life expectancy improves, cancer rates and cancer deaths also increase.
Statistically, the incidence of cancer and cancer deaths is higher in developing countries due to their growing populations, living longer and becoming increasingly susceptible to cancers associated with industrialized lifestyles. In addition, developing countries are the ones with the fewest resources to deal with the problem.
The WHO predicts that cancer cases are expected to increase by 57% worldwide in the next 20 years, an imminent “human disaster” that will require a renewed focus on its prevention.
But the good news is that cancers are preventable and can be avoided if you act in accordance with current medical knowledge. The disease can be addressed by addressing lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, and exercise. They can also be prevented by adopting screening programs and by vaccination for cancers caused by infections, such as cervical cancer and liver cancer.
Life habits to change to prevent cancer –
There are certain lifestyle habits that need to be eliminated to prevent cancer:
Tuxedo – Cigarette smoking releases hundreds of toxic chemicals into the air. Of those chemicals, about 70% can cause cancer. Secondhand smoke is even said to be a cause of cancer. Cigars are even worse because a large one emits about the same amount of secondhand smoke as a full pack of cigarettes. There is no “safe amount” of secondhand smoke, as even low levels can be harmful.
Obesity- Excess fat tissue produces excessive amounts of estrogen and other hormones that can stimulate cell growth and proliferation, increasing the chances of developing cancer. Obesity can also cause chronic inflammation, which over time can damage DNA and lead to cancer. Obesity is associated with increased risk of colon cancer, breast cancer in postmenopausal women, and endometrial cancer, among several others.
Exposure to sunlight – Excessive exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer. Using sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer, but it must be the right kind, broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistant.
Age – A quarter of new cancer cases are diagnosed in people ages 65 to 74, according to the National Cancer Institute. Although this is a non-modifiable factor, strong evidence shows that a diet filled with a variety of plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans helps reduce the risk of many types of cancer.
Sedentary lifestyle – It can lead to the development of cancer. Scientists in Germany analyzed 43 observational studies, including more than 4 million people and nearly 70,000 cancer cases, and found that an additional two hours a day of sedentary behavior was associated with an 8% increased risk of cancer colon cancer, a 10 percent increase in endometrial cancer, and a 6 percent increased risk of lung cancer, even among people who were physically active.
Exposure to artificial light at night – Scientists have discovered that exposing our bodies to artificial light at night increases the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer, which require hormones to grow. One possible explanation is that exposure to artificial light at night suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps control the sleep cycle and is also a powerful antioxidant. Lower melatonin levels are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, as there is some evidence that women who work night shifts have shown slightly higher rates of breast cancer.
Inability to say no to another drink – If people exceed the recommended daily alcohol intake limit of two drinks for men and one drink for women, they are at increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, specifically head and neck, esophageal, liver, and breast cancers.
Roast or fry meats at a higher temperature – This leads to the production of HCAs (heterocyclic amines) and PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), chemicals that have been shown to cause DNA changes that can increase cancer risk.
Inheritance- Cancer is a genetic disease, as it is caused by certain changes in the genes that control the way our cells work, especially the way they grow and divide. Cancer-promoting gene changes can be inherited from our parents if the changes are present in germ cells, which are the reproductive cells of the body (eggs and sperm). Even if a change that predisposes to cancer runs in a family, not everyone who inherits it will necessarily develop cancer.
Not getting enough exercise A large number of international research studies have shown that regular exercise, as long as it increases your heart rate, can help prevent cancer or reduce the risk of it coming back. A good goal is to exercise at least 30 minutes a day most days of the week. Moderate-intensity activities, such as brisk walking, may be enough, although there are more benefits with higher intensity. Also, adding some strength training at least three days a week will pay more dividends.
The bottom line –
If someone finds out that one has developed cancer, they will freak out the hell out of it, severely shaking the individual for life. Unfortunately, the incidence of different types of cancer is increasing all over the world. In view of the current trend, life habits that predispose to the development of cancer will have to be abandoned.
