World Cancer Day, observed on February 4th, is a global initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to raise awareness, encourage prevention, and improve access to cancer treatment. The day highlights the importance of early detection, lifestyle changes, and medical advancements in reducing the burden of cancer. For example, some cancers are more common than others and while not all can be prevented, many can be avoided through healthy habits like a balanced diet, exercise, avoiding tobacco, and regular screenings. Keep reading as we share a list of most common cancers and how you can lower your risk.
10 Most common cancers and how you can lower risk
1. Breast cancer
One of the most diagnosed cancers in women, breast cancer risk can be lowered by maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, limiting alcohol, and undergoing regular screenings like mammograms for early detection.
2. Lung cancer
Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, but exposure to air pollution, secondhand smoke, and radon gas can also contribute. “Avoiding smoking and avoiding occupational exposure like asbestos.” can reduce risk says Dr Aditi Agarwal, Associate Director of Radiation Oncology at Max Hospital, Saket.
3. Colorectal cancer
“Limiting saturated fats and red meat, plenty of dietary fibre, moderate exercise and avoiding sedentary lifestyle.” can help reduce risk says Dr. Agarwal. Routine screenings like colonoscopy can detect precancerous polyps early.
4. Prostate cancer
More common in older men, prostate cancer risk may be lowered by a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s, along with regular checkups. Early detection through PSA tests is crucial. Dr. Agarwal encourages, “Maintaining healthy weight, moderate exercise and reducing red meat.” maybe be helpful
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5. Stomach cancer
Infection with H. pylori bacteria, excessive salt intake, and smoked foods increase stomach cancer risk. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower the chances. “Avoid processed foods, avoid smoked and barbecued food, plenty of fibre, reduce red meat and reduce spicy food.” says Dr.
6. Liver cancer
Hepatitis B and C infections, excessive alcohol, and obesity raise the risk of liver cancer. Getting vaccinated against hepatitis and avoiding excessive alcohol can be preventive measures. Dr. suggests, “Maintaining healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and safe sexual practices.”
7. Cervical cancer
Cervical Cancer is caused mainly by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Cervical cancer risk can be reduced through HPV vaccination, regular Pap smears, and practicing safe sex. Besides this, Dr. suggests “Maintaining hygiene of private parts, limiting number of children, avoid early childbirth and HPV vaccination”
8. Oesophageal cancer
Oesophageal cancer's risk factors include acid reflux (GERD), smoking, and excessive alcohol. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and treating acid reflux can help lower the risk. Dr. insists “Avoid spice food, avoid smoking and alcohol, reduce red meat.”
9. Skin cancer
Excessive UV exposure is the biggest risk factor for skin cancer also known as melanoma. Wearing sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and regular skin checks can help in prevention. Dr. Agarwal explains, “Reducing exposure to sun/UV rays.” can help in risk reduction.
10. Pancreatic cancer
Smoking, obesity, and chronic pancreatitis contribute to pancreatic cancer. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding smoking and heavy alcohol use helps reduce the risk.
While genetics play a role in some cancers, lifestyle modifications like a healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and alcohol, early screenings, and vaccinations can significantly lower cancer risks.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
