Significant alterations to approach may curtail nearly half of all cancer instances
Studies show a significant connection between lifestyle choices and the risk of developing cancer, according to findings from the American Cancer Society (ACS). In a study of 1.78 million cancer cases among US adults aged 30 and over in 2019, researchers found that 50% of cases and deaths could potentially be prevented by making simple lifestyle adjustments.
In their analysis, the researchers highlighted five modifiable risk factors directly linked to cancer:
- Smoking, which accounted for 19.3% of overall cancer cases, underscoring the importance of quitting, regardless of when one decides to do so.
- Excess body weight, associated with 7.6% of cancer cases.
- Alcohol consumption, a risk factor in 5.4% of cases.
- UV radiation exposure, linked to 4.6% of cases.
- A sedentary lifestyle, connected to 3.1% of cancer cases.
The research, which examined 19 out of 30 cancer types, indicates that a majority of cancer cases may be avoidable through simple lifestyle changes. The underlying reason, as explained by the field of Epigenetics, is that our environment and lifestyle can influence how our genes express themselves, potentially altering the likelihood of developing cancer.
If individuals were to avoid smoking, limit UV exposure, reduce alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy body weight, and engage in regular physical activity, 50% of cancer cases in the US could disappear, according to the findings.
When it comes to natural cancer prevention options, recent studies suggest several promising approaches:
- Adopting a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts can help reduce cancer risk.
- Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and lowering cancer risk.
- Maintaining a healthy weight throughout life is recommended to decrease cancer risk.
- Increasing fruit and vegetable consumption and replacing processed foods with whole-grain versions can improve one's diet and lower cancer risk.
- Reducing alcohol intake is also advisable to minimize cancer risk.
- A high-fiber diet can aid in weight management and improve digestive health, potentially lowering cancer risk.
- Green tea, known for its antioxidant properties, may provide protection against certain types of cancer.
By incorporating these natural options into their lifestyle, individuals can take proactive steps toward cancer prevention.
Supplements enriched with antioxidants, such as green tea extract, could potentially support the natural prevention of certain types of cancer, given their antioxidant properties. Mental health, an often-overlooked aspect of overall well-being, could also play a role in cancer risk; the American Psychosomatic Society suggests that chronic stress and anxiety may influence the risk of developing cancer due to their effects on the immune system. To further reduce cancer risk, science and health-and-wellness communities recommend focusing on proper nutrition, ensuring a balanced intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and avoiding processed foods.
