Fighting cancer is a difficult journey. Read on to learn about lifestyle strategies for dealing with cancer in young people.
Cancer is a major health burden in India, with an estimated incidence of 19 million people in 2022. Approximately two people are diagnosed with cancer every minute. Head and neck cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and ovarian cancer account for the majority of cancers, along with lung cancer and gastrointestinal cancer. “Great advances have been made in understanding the genetics and biological behavior of cancer. Two important observations have been made: First, genetics and family history account for 10% to 15% of cancer cases. “While factors related to dietary and lifestyle modifications contribute 85 to 90 percent. Second, cancer is not an overnight phenomenon.” Dr. Kirti Bhushan, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Mahim-Fortis Associate, SL Raheja Hospital Additionally, this is a process, and it takes years for normal cells to eventually manifest as cancer. There are many stages in between, so if you can achieve certain dietary and lifestyle modifications, you can stop cancer from developing and progressing at these intermediate stages.
Also read: World Cancer Day 2024: Strategies to tackle cancer in young people
Current understanding is that cancer is preventable through lifestyle modifications. It would be even better if these modifications were made early, with a full understanding that the benefits of adhering to lifestyle modifications far outweigh the risks associated with lifestyle disorders. According to Dr. Bhushan, the following lifestyle modifications may help prevent cancer from occurring.
avoid smoking
Avoid consumption of any form of tobacco (i.e. paan, gutka, khaini, bidis, cigarettes). Human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Get vaccinated against these infections.
avoid radiation exposure
While treatment-related exposures cannot be avoided, exposures in the form of imaging, ultraviolet radiation (from the sun), or workplace chemical exposures (asbestos, silicosis, etc.) can definitely be avoided.
Also read: Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: How does HPV cause cervical cancer?
reduce alcohol intake
If you drink alcohol, Dr. Boussin recommends limiting yourself to one drink (for women) and two drinks (for men) per day.
Consume more fruits and vegetables to get antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Eat a diet rich in protein, fiber, and low in fat. Reduce your consumption of processed meat. Become more active and exercise at least 5 hours a week. Maintain a healthy weight equivalent to a BMI < 30.
follow a set routine
Create a routine, take care of yourself through meditation, yoga, eating on time, sleep hygiene and maintain a good work-life balance. Minimize medication regimens such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) unless specifically prescribed.
If you are over 40 years old, both men and women should have regular check-ups. Avoid exposure to air pollution sooner if you have a strong family history of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, etc. Please use a mask when going out. Please wear appropriately. Use an air purifier indoors if necessary.
The best offense is a good defense, and that's when we talk about prevention. At least 4 out of 10 cancers can be prevented by making key lifestyle changes. Therefore, eat well, sleep well, be active and do not smoke.
