Discussing Cancer Prevention Strategies: A Doctor Outlines Six Approaches, Ranging From Dietary Choices to Vaccine Options
In the ongoing battle against cancer, lifestyle choices play a crucial role in reducing the risk of this disease. Dr SK Bala, a renowned expert in the field, offers several key recommendations for those seeking to protect themselves.
First and foremost, avoid tobacco use in all forms, including smoking and chewing tobacco. These habits are linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, pancreas, and others.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also essential. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast, colon, and endometrial cancers. Regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week, can help achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption is another important measure. Excessive drinking increases the risk of liver, breast, colon, and esophageal cancers.
A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, while limiting intake of red and processed meats, refined grains, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars, can significantly lower the risk of various cancers.
Getting vaccinated against cancer-related viruses such as hepatitis B (to prevent liver cancer) and HPV (to prevent cervical and certain other cancers) is also recommended.
Lastly, regular medical checkups and cancer screenings appropriate for age and risk factors are crucial for early detection and prevention. Pap tests, mammograms, and other screenings are important for early detection and improved outcomes.
These lifestyle strategies target multiple cancer types and reflect expert consensus on behavioral prevention as explained by Dr SK Bala.
It's important to note that not all cancers can be prevented due to random genetic mutation or a strong family history. However, adopting these healthy habits can significantly reduce the risk for many individuals.
In India, the incidence of cancer cases is alarmingly high. The Indian Journal of Medical Research has estimated 1,461,427 cancer cases in India for 2022. The incidence of cancer cases is projected to increase by 12.8% in 2025 compared to 2020.
Among children under 14, lymphoid leukaemia is the leading type of cancer. This underscores the importance of educating children about healthy habits and the potential risks associated with unhealthy lifestyle choices.
In conclusion, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a balanced diet, getting vaccinated, and undergoing regular medical checkups and screenings, can significantly reduce the risk of cancer. By making these changes, we can take an active role in our own health and help combat this widespread disease.
[1] For recommended screenings based on your age and risk factors, consult with your doctor.
Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, while limiting intake of red and processed meats, refined grains, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars, is a crucial strategy for reducing the risk of various medical-conditions like cancer. Regular medical checkups and cancer screenings appropriate for age and risk factors are essential for early detection and prevention, and are recommended for health-and-wellness.
