One third of common cancers are preventable

According to the World Health Organization, at least one third of common cancers are preventable by changing our lifestyle choices, including eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight and keeping physically active.

As the second biggest cause of death worldwide, it’s important to consider a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions help prevent cancer.

So, here are our Top 10 tips for reducing your risk of developing cancer:

1. Maintain a healthy diet

Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, and low in processed foods, red meat, and sugar, is associated with a reduced risk of cancer.

2. Regular Exercise

Regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day, has been shown to reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer.

3. Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight or obese has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and endometrial cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of cancer.

4. Avoid Tobacco

Using tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, is a major cause of cancer, particularly lung cancer. Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to second-hand smoke can greatly reduce the risk of cancer.

5. Limit alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol, especially in large amounts, has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancer.

6. Protect yourself from the sun

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major cause of skin cancer. Wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen can help reduce the risk of skin cancer.

According to Cancer Research UK, sunbeds can increase your chance of melanoma skin cancer by up to 20%, so are best avoided.

7. Get vaccinated

Some cancers, such as liver cancer, can be prevented by getting vaccinated against the viruses that cause them, such as hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

8. Manage stress

Chronic stress has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer. Practicing stress-management techniques, such as mindfulness and exercise, can help reduce the risk of cancer.

9. Avoid exposure to toxins

Avoiding exposure to toxins, such as certain chemicals and pollutants, can reduce the risk of certain cancers.

10. Have recommended cancer screenings

Regular cancer screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap tests, can help detect cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable.

There is no single factor that can cause cancer, and a combination of factors, including genetics, can influence a person's risk. However, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk of developing cancer and improve overall health.