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February is National Cancer Prevention Month

Understanding Your Cancer Risk

While some cancers are genetically linked, most cancers are not primarily hereditary – meaning most cancers come factors beyond your family history. Research shows that inherited genetic factors account for less than 10% of most cancers. The good news is that environmental and lifestyle factors play a leading role in causing most cancers, which means you have significant power to reduce your risk through healthy choices.

Studies show that 30-50% of cancers are linked to lifestyle and environmental factors, like diet, exercise and smoking. In fact, research shows that people who adopt the healthiest lifestyles have a 29% lower risk of developing cancer and up to a 52% lower risk of dying from cancer compared to those with the least healthy habits.

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Lifestyle Habits That Reduce Cancer Risk

The following recommendations from the American Cancer Society can significantly lower your cancer risk: 

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight 

Excess body fat increases risk for many cancers including breast, colorectal, kidney, pancreatic, and esophageal cancer. Keep your body weight within a healthy range throughout your life to help reduce your risk.

2. Stay Physically Active

Physical activity reduces the risk of colon, breast, and endometrial cancers. 

  • Aim for 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week (like brisk walking), or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running). 
  • Working out for more than 300 minutes per week provides maximum benefits. 
  • Don’t be a couch potato! Limit your time spent sitting, lying down, watching television, or using screens.

3. Follow a Healthy Eating Pattern

We believe food is medicine. Making simple swaps that work for your daily life will not only make you healthier but can help reduce your risk of cancer. 

Focus on: 

  • A variety of colorful vegetables (dark green, red, and orange) 
  • Whole fruits 
  • Whole grains 
  • Legumes (beans and peas) 

Limit or avoid: 

  • Red meat (beef, pork, lamb) 
  • Processed meats (bacon, sausage, deli meats, hot dogs) 
  • Sugar-sweetened beverages 
  • Highly processed foods and refined grains

4. Avoid or Limit Alcohol

Any alcohol consumption increases cancer risk, particularly for breast, liver, colorectal, and upper digestive tract cancers. If you choose to drink, limit consumption to no more than 1 drink per day for women or 2 drinks per day for men.

5. Don’t Use Tobacco

Smoking is the single most preventable cause of cancer, so it should be avoided in all forms. If you currently smoke, quitting at any age provides significant health benefits – so you’re never too old to stop

6. Protect Your Skin

It may be winter, but you’re exposed to the sun year-round. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, limit sun exposure (especially during midday hours) and wear protective clothing. 

The Impact of Healthy Choices

Research shows that adopting these healthy lifestyle habits together can prevent a substantial number of cancers. Studies indicate that approximately 19% of all cancer cases are attributed to the combination of excess body weight, poor diet, physical inactivity, and alcohol consumption. People who follow cancer prevention guidelines most closely have a 10-20% lower risk of cancer diagnosis and a 24-30% lower risk of dying from cancer. 

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When to Consider Genetic Counseling

While most cancers are not hereditary, you should discuss genetic counseling with your provider if you have: 

  • Multiple family members with the same type of cancer 
  • Cancer diagnosed at unusually young ages in your family 
  • A personal history of certain cancers, such as ovarian, pancreatic, or early-onset breast cancer 
  • Known inherited cancer syndromes in your family, like BRCA1 

Take Action Against Cancer Today

Small changes can make a big difference. Start by choosing one or two healthy habits to focus on and build from there. Your healthcare provider can help you create a personalized plan to reduce your risk of developing cancer. They can also assess you for cancer screenings based on your age and risk factors and offer resources to help you adopt healthier habits. 

You have the power to significantly reduce your cancer risk through the choices you make every day. Take the first step today!

This post was written by Strong Springs Family Medicine provider Jihad Alwarith, PA-C, DMS. New to FFPC? Find a location near you.

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