How to reduce the risk of cancer: The Ministry of Health has given advice

19 February 02:45

An individual’s likelihood of developing cancer depends on a variety of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, environment, history of other diseases, diet, occupation, children, and many other factors. However, everyone can significantly reduce the risk of getting cancer by leading a healthy lifestyle. The Ministry of Health recommends following simple tips to prevent cancer, according to

What the Ministry of Health recommends:

  • Be physically active and eat a healthy diet. Smoking, overweight, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle and insufficient consumption of plant-based foods are the causes of one third of cancer cases.
  • Give up smoking and alcohol. Alcohol can cause at least 7 types of cancer. Smoking is the cause of 1 in 4 cancer deaths.Tips and useful materials on smoking cessation methods can be found here: https://stopsmoking.org.ua/. Make your home and workplace smoke-free.
  • Up to 25% of cancer cases are caused by hepatitis B viruses and human papillomaviruses. Make sure that your children are vaccinated against hepatitis B (guaranteed by the state) and preferably against human papillomavirus. If possible, get vaccinated yourself.
  • Use barrier contraception during all types of sex to avoid infections that increase the likelihood of developing cancer.
  • Limit your time in the sun. Do not sunbathe in the sun or in a tanning bed. Ultraviolet radiation causes up to 90% of skin cancer and photoaging. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses all year round.
  • Eat more vegetables and fruits, whole grains and legumes. Avoid processed meats; limit your intake of red meat and foods high in salt
  • and high-salt foods.
  • For women: breastfeed your baby if possible. This reduces your risk of developing breast cancer.
  • Follow safety rules at work and at home.
  • Regular self-examinations and screenings for different types of cancer increase the chances of early detection and thus better treatment.

Остафійчук Ярослав
Editor