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What You Can Do to Lower the Risk of Cancer – Cancer Modifiable Risk Factors:
Tobacco Use
- Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
- Seek cessation programs or nicotine replacement therapy.
Unhealthy Diet
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limit processed and red meats, sugary drinks, and high-fat foods.
- A healthy eating pattern is most important
Alcohol
- Limit alcohol intake (ideally no more than 1 drink/day for women, 2 for men). It’s not just excessive alcohol. Any amount of alcohol can raise your risk of certain cancers.
Infections
- Get vaccinated (HPV, Hepatitis B).
- Practice safe sex and good hygiene.
Excess Weight
- Maintain a healthy BMI through balanced diet and exercise.
Air Pollution
- Use air purifiers indoors.
- Avoid outdoor exercise during high pollution alerts.
Physical Inactivity
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. 300 minutes per week is best for cancer prevention.
Hormones
- Discuss hormone therapy risks with your doctor.
- Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time if needed.
UV Radiation
- Wear sunscreen (SPF 30+), protective clothing & hats, and avoid tanning beds.
Radiation
- Limit unnecessary medical imaging.
- Follow safety guidelines if exposed to occupational radiation.
This is the final part of a series on specific Cancers that have preventive screenings.
To View All Parts Click Here!
Written by: Kelly McCall, Manager Health Intelligence Analytics