Many people believe that getting cancer is just genetics, fate, or bad luck, and that preventing it is outside of their reach. But our risk actually depends on a combination of factors: our genes, our environment, and our lifestyle choices, many of which we CAN control. Research has proven that many cancers could be prevented by reducing tobacco use, improving diet and physical activity, reducing obesity, and regular screening tests.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that in 2015, about 171,000 cancer deaths will be caused by tobacco smoking alone. In addition, approximately one-quarter to one-third of the more than 1.6 million cancer cases expected to occur in 2015 can be attributed to people having poor nutrition, a lack of physical activity, and being overweight or obese.
Take the First Step – Just Quit!
According to the ACS, each year smoking results in an estimated 480,000 premature deaths and about one-third of these deaths are due to cancer. Tobacco use has been linked to an increased risk of cancers of the lung, mouth, larynx, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, colorectal, liver, pancreas, kidney, bladder, uterine cervix, and ovary (mucinous), as well as myeloid leukemia.
Healthier Choices Start With You
The World Cancer Research Fund estimates that about one-quarter to one-third of all cancers in the U.S. can be attributed to diet and insufficient physical activity, as well as being overweight and obese.
The ACS Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention state that following three main strategies for a healthy lifestyle has been shown to reduce the risk of death from cancer, as well as other chronic diseases:
• Achieve and maintain a healthy weight
• Adopt a physically active lifestyle
• Consume a healthy diet
The ACS indicates that adults who follow all healthy lifestyle recommendations, including not smoking, are 36% less likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 40% less likely to die from the disease.
Make Screenings a Priority
In addition to taking charge of the factors within your control, make sure to see your doctor to discuss which cancer screening tests are appropriate for your age. Screening tests can prevent some cancers from even developing by identifying and removing or treating premalignant abnormalities. For other types of cancer, screening tests can detect cancer at an earlier stage when treatment is more effective.
For more information on the American Cancer Society’s screening guidelines, visit www.cancer.org.
Submitted by San Antonio Regional Hospital
Cancer: The Power of Prevention Lies with You
