8 Lifestyle Habits for Cancer Prevention

There aren't any hard and fast rules on how to prevent cancer, but it is true that living a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk.

Here are some ways to start making healthy
changes in your life today.

1. Eat well^[1]

   You don't need to have a special diet plan —just make sure you eat plenty of fruit and vegetables every day. Try replacing sugary snacks with healthier choices like fruit and nuts.

2. Stay active^[1]

   Start with 30 minutes of exercise at least three days a week and work up to five days a week. Pick an activity you enjoy so you're more likely to stick to it, like cycling, dancing, or simply going for evening walks.

3. Get enough sleep^[1]

   It's important we get 7—8 hours of quality sleep every night, especially as we age. If you have trouble sleeping, try putting away all digital devices an hour before bedtime and doing calming activities like meditation.

4. Limit your alcohol consumption^[1]

   Drinking more than one alcoholic beverage per day increases your risk of developing certain cancers, so hold off on that extra pint!

5. Stop smoking^[1]

   Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of many different types of cancer, including lung cancer and oral cancer. If you're trying to quit, consider seeking professional help instead of going cold turkey.

6. Protect yourself from the sun^[1]

   Make it a habit to wear sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher during the day. Or, cover up with clothing when you're going to be under the sun for long periods.

7. Stay trim^[2]

   Did you know that the risk of various forms of cancer increases

   when you are overweight?

   That's why it's important to keep moving (see Step 2). Keep an eye on your calorie intake, limit your intake of red meat and increase the amount of fruit, vegetables and wholegrains in your diet.

8. See the doctor regularly^[1]

   Schedule annual

   health screenings with your doctor so they can keep an eye on any health issues in its early stages - and treat it before it becomes serious!

References:

1 Mayo Clinic. Cancer prevention: 7 tips to reduce your risk, 2021. Available from https://www.mayoclinic.org/ healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/cancer-prevention/art-20044816. Accessed June 7, 2022.

2 Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School. The 10 commandments of cancer prevention. Available from https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/the-10-commandments-of-cancer-prevention Accessed June 8, 2022.