Stay tuned: Check out 7 ways to reduce your risk of developing cancer

Cancer is one of those diseases that tops the list of the most feared in the world, since in most cases it advances silently and has devastating consequences.

However, as we explained in a previous article here from Mega Curioso, it is estimated that only between 5% and 10% of cancers are caused by genetic reasons, which means that, for the most part, they arise due to factors such as diet, our lifestyle and exposure to outside agents.

Therefore, it also means that there are some attitudes that can help reduce the risk of developing the disease. Here are some tips from people at the University of Berkeley, USA:

1 - Keep an eye on the scale

Studies have shown that obesity is associated with chronic inflammation in the body, which in turn may contribute to increase the risk of various types of cancer, such as liver, colon and esophagus, as well as leukemia., non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma.

(Pixabay / Tero Vesalainen)

Also, in women specifically, after they have gone through menopause, there is a greater danger that obese women will develop breast and uterine cancer. In this case, the emergence of these cancers is associated with the fact that fat cells cause an increase in the levels of hormones in the blood which, in turn, may trigger the appearance of certain types of the disease.

2 - Follow a balanced diet

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Just as processed, sugar-rich products have the power to increase the risk of developing cancer, there are foods that can prevent its onset. For this, opt for a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and legumes and give preference to whole items over refined ones. Also limit the consumption of red and pork meat, especially processed meat, and avoid eating salty or pickled foods.

3 - Reduce barbecues

Unless you are a vegetarian, there is a high probability that you are a fan of a nice barbecue. However, when we roast meats - whether red, pork or poultry - over red-hot charcoal, the high temperatures promote the formation of polycyclic and aminoheterocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, compounds that are associated with the increased risk of some types of appearance. cancer, such as pancreas, colon and prostate.

(Pixabay / Holger Langmaier)

Indeed, studies have shown that any meat preparation that involves exposing the pieces to high temperatures - including frying - can lead to the release of these carcinogenic compounds. How to deal then? One solution would be to leave barbecues only once in a while or, alternatively, to pre-cook the meat in the microwave and then to rotate the pieces frequently on the barbecue to help reduce the formation of hydrocarbons and aminoheterocyclics.

4 - Drink less

Several studies have pointed out that drinking alcohol may increase the risk of various types of cancer, such as liver, colon and breast, as well as throat, esophagus and larynx, for example. And the bad thing is that the higher the intake, the greater the danger that these diseases will arise.

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To avoid the risk, scientists advise that consumption be avoided or done in moderation. Women are advised to limit alcohol intake to one dose per day, while men may take up to two doses - or less if the person is over 65 years old.

5 - Do not smoke

Although this is a recommendation that everyone is bald to know, it never hurts to give that reinforced! Smoking is related to the onset of various types of cancer, including lung, throat, larynx, esophagus, bladder, stomach, pancreas and kidney.

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But it is not only cigarettes that increase the risk of developing these diseases! The use of tobacco in general, either through cigars, pipes and even chewable can be harmful. Not to mention that passive smokers can also suffer the consequences of others' habit.

6 - Take care of the sun

Although moderate sun exposure is necessary for the body to function properly, ultraviolet radiation can cause some types of skin cancer - and as you may know, there are varieties of the disease that are beyond aggressive and even lethal. .

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Most diagnosed lesions consist of basal cell carcinomas, which are mildly aggressive cancers that rarely spread to other parts of the body. There are also squamous cell carcinomas, which are far more aggressive than basal cells and can spread to other organs such as the lungs, mucous membranes of the mouth and cervix, and melanomas, which are the most dangerous types of cancer. skin.

You may already know what to do to reduce the risk of developing these diseases, right? Use sunscreen daily and follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding the correct reapplication of the product to ensure its effectiveness.

7 - Move the body

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Not only does physical activity help prevent obesity - a factor that, as we have already explained, can contribute to the onset of obesity - it also helps lower the risk of developing various cancers. This is because exercise helps to improve immune system function, insulin resistance, keep hormone levels under control, and regulate cell growth factors.