Ten Ways to Reduce Your Cancer Risk
Fall 2006
Many people believe there's no way to prevent cancer. But, in fact, more than half the cancer deaths in the United States are caused by controllable factors.
Thirty-fi ve percent of the deaths are related to unhealthy diets, and 30 percent are related to tobacco use. Even when cancer develops, it's survivable if caught early.
Here are 10 ways to reduce your cancer risk or increase the odds of early detection:
- Review your family medical history and assess your personal health history.
- Follow recommended screening guidelines for your age and gender.
- Improve your diet; eat high-fi ber and low-fat foods.
- Reduce your alcohol consumption.
- Maintain your ideal weight.
- Don't smoke or use chewing tobacco.
- Exercise; it can help you from becoming overweight.
- Protect your skin from the sun.
- Avoid environmental risk factors, such as radon and asbestos.
- Do skin self-exams, and visit your doctor for regular checkups.