Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer. Aim to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Eat a Healthy Diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet. Limit processed foods, red meat, and sugary beverages. A healthy diet can help lower your risk of cancer.
Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also reduces the risk of certain cancers, such as breast and colon cancer.
Avoid Tobacco: Tobacco use in any form increases the risk of cancer. If you smoke, quit smoking as soon as possible. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke and other tobacco products.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of certain cancers, including liver, breast, and colorectal cancer. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation. For women, this means up to one drink per day, and for men, up to two drinks per day.
Protect Your Skin: Limit exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds. Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, seek shade, and wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, when outdoors.
Get Vaccinated: Vaccines are available to prevent certain infections that can lead to cancer. For example, the HPV vaccine can protect against HPV infections that can cause cervical and other cancers. Talk to your healthcare provider about recommended vaccines.
Get Screened: Regular cancer screening tests can help detect cancer early when it's most treatable. Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for screenings such as mammograms, Pap tests, colonoscopies, and skin exams.
Know Your Family History: Some types of cancer, such as breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancer, can run in families. Know your family history of cancer and discuss it with your healthcare provider to determine if you may be at increased risk.
Practice Safe Sex: Practice safe sex to reduce your risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), some of which can increase the risk of certain cancers. Use condoms consistently and limit your number of sexual partners.
