Publication: Arlington Today
Over the course of a lifetime, one in three women will develop cancer. For men, the odds are one in two. The good news is that about 42 percent of newly diagnosed cancers in the U.S. may be preventable through lifestyle changes, according to the American Cancer Society. Here are five simple steps to lower your risk of developing cancer.
1. Schedule Screenings
Screening exams are the most effective way to detect cancer in its earliest stages – often before it has spread and when treatment is the most effective. Call your physician to schedule your annual screenings.
2. Eat Right
To bolster your body’s defenses against cancer and other illnesses, limit your intake of sugars, saturated fats, trans fats, and alcohol. Instead, opt for healthy foods like nutrient-packed produce, dark, leafy greens, and a variety of seasonal fruits and cruciferous vegetables.
3. Get Moving
Whether you prefer biking, gardening, walking, or yoga, it’s important to get active. Incorporating regular physical activity into your daily routine can reduce your risk for several major cancers.
4. Practice Sun Safety
Limit exposure to UV rays by avoiding indoor tanning, applying sunscreen year-round, and wearing protective clothing that covers your skin.
5. Stop Smoking
Research shows that smoking cessation is paramount to lung health, and smokers who quit are more likely to live healthier and longer lives, while greatly decreasing their lung cancer risk. If you need smoking cessation support, call the Quitline at 1-877-937-7848.
This article originally appeared in Arlington Today.