According to the American Cancer Society, about 42% of new cancer cases (not including non-melanoma skin cancers) could be avoidable with lifestyle and behavior changes. This adds up to at least 840,000 cancer cases that could be prevented in 2025. While it might feel overwhelming thinking about changing behaviors all at once, there are key steps outlined below to lower risk. Learn more and take action today to prevent cancer!
Avoid Tobacco
Smoking and tobacco use cause about 20% of cancer cases and 30% of cancer deaths, including lung, mouth, and throat cancer. If you’re at high risk, a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan can detect lung cancer early. Talk to your doctor if you:
- Are 50-77 years old
- Have smoked a pack a day for 20+ years
- Still smoke or quit within the last 15 years
- Have a referral for LDCT screening
Eat a Balanced Diet & Stay Active
A poor diet, increased alcohol use, and inactivity can contribute to 18 of cancer cases. Risk can be lowered by:
- Eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Limiting processed foods, red meat, and alcohol
- Exercising at least 30 minutes a day, as simple as walking or doing chair exercises
Protect Your Skin
UV rays from the sun and tanning beds are the leading cause of skin cancer. Stay safe by wearing SPF 30+ sunscreen during all seasons, wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and avoid direct sun exposure.
Get Vaccinated
There are many preventative measures you can take but one direct measure is getting the HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) which protects against several cancers. The Gardasil 9 vaccine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for people aged 9 and older in an effort to prevent the develop of many different cancers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests routine HPV vaccination at age 11 or 12. People younger than age 15 can be vaccinated with two doses, 6 to 12 months apart. The ideal age for vaccination is before a person is sexually active. The CDC suggests catch-up HPV vaccinations for all people through age 26 who aren’t fully vaccinated. The FDA approved the use of Gardasil 9 for males and females ages 9 to 45. If between the ages of 27 to 45, discuss your risks with your healthcare team. Together you can decide if you should get the HPV vaccine.
Stay on Top of Screenings
Early detection saves lives. Regular screenings can identify and remove precancerous cells before they become dangerous:
- Cervical Cancer: Regular Pap smears detect abnormal cell changes
- Colorectal Cancer: Routine colonoscopies starting at age 45 screen for polyps before they turn cancerous
- Skin Cancer: Make it a routine to check your skin for for abnormal moles or skin changes
- Breast Cancer: Mammograms can detect breast cancer early, improving treatment outcomes. Experts recommend screenings starting at age 40, or earlier for high-risk individuals.
Small changes make a big difference. If you’re unsure of your health risk and the chance of developing cancer, talk with your primary care provider. They can provide more personalized insight with your family history and lifestyle choices.
