Every year we see advancements and promising trends in diagnosing and treating cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, the cancer mortality rate in the U.S. has steadily declined over the past 30 years by 34 percent. It’s a hopeful development –– largely attributed to advances in early detection and treatment breakthroughs.

While we can’t control everything about our health, reports show that 30-50 percent of cancers may be preventable by modifying or avoiding key risk factors and incorporating existing, evidence-based habits. Here are three ways to cut your cancer risk and take back your overall health.

• Be mindful of nutrition, diet, and exercise. While cancer deaths overall are declining, about 7 percent of cancer deaths are overweight or obesity-related. In the U.S., about 5 percent of cancers in men and 11 percent of cancers in women are linked to excess body weight. Managing your weight based on your specific body mass index or BMI, eating a nutrient-rich and well-balanced diet, and maintaining regular physical activity are all factors in protecting your body. These guidelines are not only important for your overall well-being but also key to preventing and lowering your cancer risk.
• Eliminate smoking and tobacco use. This year, 226,650 new cases of lung cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the U.S., and it is the second most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women. Today, the leading cause of lung cancer is smoking. In fact, about 80 percent of lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking, and many others are caused by exposure to secondhand smoke. Research continues to show that smoking cessation is paramount to lung health, so it’s important to understand your risk and talk to your physician about available resources to reduce or eliminate tobacco usage. You can also contact Quitline, a hotline supported by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
• Limit alcohol consumption. While the link between smoking and cancer is commonly discussed, numerous reports recently found that limiting alcohol consumption is also a significant factor in preventing cancer. In the U.S., alcohol accounts for about 5 percent of cancer diagnoses and 4 percent of cancer-related deaths. Alcohol use has been linked to at least seven cancer types including mouth, throat, larynx, pharynx, esophagus, liver, colon, rectum, and breast. Alcohol affects the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, damages body tissue, raises levels of estrogen, which can lead to breast cancer, and contributes to weight gain. To lower your risk, experts recommended that men limit intake to two drinks per day, and women to one drink a day.

This month is Cancer Prevention Month, and as a society, we’re making huge strides in the fight against cancer, but there’s much more work to be done. While the cancer community continues to focus on diagnosis and treatment, you can do your part one small step at a time by taking charge of your own prevention strategy.