Did you know that 40% of cancer cases can be prevented? A study by the American Cancer Society highlights how lifestyle changes and addressing risky behaviors can drastically reduce cancer risk, thus preventing cancer in numerous cases.
The study analyzed 30 cancer types, excluding non-melanoma skin cancers, and found that nearly 1.8 million cases in adults aged 30 and older in 2019 were attributable to “modifiable risk factors.” These factors include smoking. Excessive alcohol consumption and poor diet also contribute. Another factor is the lack of vaccination against cancer-causing infections like HPV and hepatitis B, which is crucial for preventing cancer.
HIGH-RISK BEHAVIORS THAT INCREASE CANCER RISK
Certain behaviors significantly elevate the risk of developing cancer. Key factors include:
- Excessive Smoking: The leading preventable cause of lung cancer.
- Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke: Poses a similar risk.
- Alcohol Consumption: Associated with various cancers, including liver and breast cancer.
- Frequent Consumption of Red or Processed Meat: Linked to colorectal cancer. Reducing this can be a step toward preventing cancer.
- Insufficient Intake of Fruits and Vegetables: Essential for providing cancer-fighting nutrients.
- Skipping HPV and Hepatitis B Vaccines: Increases the risk of infection-related cancers, underscoring the importance of preventing cancer.
PREVENTABLE CANCER CASES BY THE NUMBERS
Lung cancer accounted for the highest number of preventable cases:
- Men: 104,410 cases.
- Women: 97,250 cases.
Other preventable cancers included:
- Skin Melanoma: 50,570 cases.
- Colorectal Cancer: 44,310 cases. These numbers reflect the importance of actively preventing cancer.
ROLE OF PUBLIC HEALTH INITIATIVES
“Smoking rates have declined significantly over the past decades. Yet, smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer deaths,” said Farad Islami, lead author of the study. Islami emphasized the importance of robust tobacco control policies. These policies are crucial to curb smoking. He also stressed the need for early detection of lung cancer to improve survival rates, which ties into preventing cancer.
VACCINES AS A PROTECTIVE MEASURE
Vaccination against HPV and hepatitis B significantly reduces the risk of infections that can lead to cancer. Public health leaders are encouraged to prioritize vaccine access and education campaigns to promote their uptake. These measures are essential in preventing cancer.
SMALL CHANGES, BIG IMPACT
Adopting healthier habits can significantly reduce your cancer risk:
- Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Balance your diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Cut down on processed and red meats.
- Stay active to maintain a healthy weight. This is crucial for preventing cancer.
- Get vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B.