Over the last few decades, medical science has seen an exponential advancement in research to gain a more in-depth understanding of diseases such as cancer. Various studies were performed linking cancer causation to factors like smoking, observing a poor diet, and radiation exposure. And for the most part, this has become public knowledge.
However, there are certain habits and factors that you may practice frequently but are not aware could cause cancer, including:
- Consuming too much alcohol: With a bar around every corner, alcohol consumption has become increasingly common, and with it, the risk of cancer. Essentially, alcohol is a compound that breaks down in the body to produce acetaldehyde, which happens to be a known carcinogen. Acetaldehyde often damages DNA and further hinders repair. The damaged DNA may cause cell overgrowth and birth cancerous tumors. Alcohol consumption is known to directly increase the risk of breast, esophageal, mouth, and liver cancers. Overconsumption also leads to obesity which further increases the chances of cancer.
- Being desk-bound 24/7 – Inactivity and following a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of several types of cancers. Though little research exists linking inactivity directly to cancer, common understanding provides much reasoning on its own. By being active for less than 30-60 minutes per day, partaking in moderately intense exercises, the risks are significantly reduced. A study performed by the AICR shows a reduced risk of colorectal, endometrial, and postmenopausal breast cancers due to physical activity.
Consider watching this video to know more about the top 10 ways to prevent cancer…
- Consuming sugary beverages: A glass of cold lemonade on a hot summer day is enough to brighten up your mood. But make sure to keep it an occasional treat rather than a daily practice. Consumption of beverages laden with sugar, such as sodas, iced teas, and processes juices, has increased the risks of endometrial cancer. Frequent consumption of such beverages causes the blood insulin level to spike, providing the ideal environment for endometrial cancer cells to grow. So male sure to limit the consumption to every once in a while.
- Being unable to manage stress: Stress is often labeled a silent killer concerning many fatal diseases. Surprisingly enough, stress is seldom a direct cause but more a promoting factor to severe illnesses. Similarly, stress doesn’t directly cause cancer, but due to the body’s response to the stress, an ideal environment for cancer cells to grow is created. Stress also leads to increased consumption of alcohol and overeating or smoking, all factors leading to higher risks of cancer. Therefore, you must learn to manage your stress more effectively.
- Not wearing sunscreen – Regularly applying sunscreen does more than prevent wrinkles and slow down the effects of aging. Research has shown, time after time, how sunscreen application should be a must, regardless of age, gender, or skin color. It works by blocking out the harmful UV rays from the sun, which are known to cause skin cancer. So if there’s one step you must add to your skincare routine, it’s applying sunscreen.
While these practices may seem harmless to most, their aggregate effect could be fatal. Therefore, you must actively fight against these daily habits.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!