Some of the most common types of cancers are sometimes ones we can avoid. Those diagnosed with liver cancer, for example, have tripled since the 1980s, and it is now one of the most common types of cancers in the United States.
A common cause of this disease is a lack of care for the liver. The same goes for lung cancer. More than 80% of lung cancer patients were smokers.
So what can you do to help prevent some of these more common types of cancers?
1. Get Vaccinated
While liver cancer can potentially be prevented through lifestyle changes such as limiting your alcohol intake or changing your diet, one of the best forms of liver cancer prevention includes vaccination.
Hepatitis B and C are big risk factors for this type of cancer. It’s important to get these vaccinations to prevent these types of infections and immediate treatment if infected.
2. Change Your Diet
While breast cancer is primarily found in women, there are cases where it can still arise in men. Certain types of food have been linked to developing breast cancer, such as red meat, butter, and other processed foods.
Changing up your diet can help reduce the risks of this type of cancer. Mediterranean diets that include extra-virgin olive oil, plant-based foods, nuts, and whole grains have been shown to decrease the risk of breast cancer.
3. Quit Smoking
1 in 16 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer this year. One of the main causes is smoking. This can be one of the hardest addictions to break as it’s easily accessible for anyone 18 years or older.
Many states offer smoke-free programs to provide residents with nicotine replacement therapies and additional support to help them quit smoking.
4. Protect Yourself From The Sun
One of the most common types of cancer is skin cancer. Thankfully, there are many steps you can take to prevent it.
Protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen with at least 30 SPF. Avoid using tanning beds and keep out of direct sunlight during peak hours. If you have very fair skin, cover your skin using a hat or other types of long clothing.
5. Stay Protected
Sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV (human immunodeficiency viruses) and HPV (human papillomavirus) can lead to different types of cancers, including cervical and testicular cancer.
Staying protected during sexual intercourse can help prevent these diseases in most circumstances. Vaccinations are also available for HPV for both men and women, as early as 9.
However, other risky behaviors can lead to HIV causing cancer. You should never share needles and if you’re suffering from any type of drug addiction, seek help immediately.
6. Get Regular Exercise
You can never go wrong with getting a little more exercise into your weekly routine. Having a healthy weight through physical activity can help reduce your risk of various cancers, such as prostate, kidney, and ovarian cancer.
Aim to get at least 30 minutes of physical exercise every day, while adding at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise.
7. Take Your Vitamins
A recent report from Harvard suggested taking 800 to 1,000 IU of vitamin D a day to help reduce your risk of various cancers.
This, unfortunately, is not nearly the amount that a normal person can get in their diet on an average day without the use of a supplement. Make sure to take the necessary vitamins to keep your body healthy.
8. See The Doctor Regularly
One of the most effective ways to prevent cancer is to get regular check-ups from your doctor.
This includes appointments such as oral cancer screenings, regular OBGYN appointments, or mammograms.
Conclusion
While there is still no cure for cancer, there are several things you can do to reduce the risks. Many lifestyle changes can be made, along with medical treatment through vaccines and tests.
Stay up to date with your doctor and if you need assistance in adjusting your lifestyle, see what programs are available in your state.
