Ways to Prevent Cancer by Changing Your Lifestyle: Cancer Prevention Tips & Methods
It seems as though the number of cases of cancer, in many forms, is increasing, so too are the medical advances in the areas of prevention. As medical science learns more about the causes of various cancers, we are no longer relegated to mere “hoping” that we are never cancer victims. We now have proven methods including lifestyle changes and nutritional regimens that are extremely effective in prevention of cancer.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer, while becoming one of the most frequent forms of cancer cases documented, is also the easiest to prevent. As our environmental changes continue to promote increases in the sun’s radiation in our atmosphere, the simplest and most recommended form of prevention of skin cancer is to stay out of the sun. Be sure to wear a hat, sunglasses, and at least SPF15 sunblock on all exposed skin at all times in the sun.
Dermatologists have also discovered how certain vitamins, when topically applied in the form of creams and moisturizers, will actually reverse the sun damage already apparent on the skin. Moisturizers containing antioxidant vitamins C, E and Niacin, will prevent the further development of sun damage which may lead to skin cancer, as well as reversing the effects of the sun damage already present.
Other Cancers
There have been many clinical studies conducted regarding taking antioxidant vitamins and their effect in prevention of cancer, and the results are very promising. Antioxidants block certain cancers by adding “links” to DNA strands that buffer the effects of carcinogens in the body on the primary DNA.
Foods specifically known to prevent cancer by being a vital source of antioxidants include berries, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, garlic, oranges, and green tea. Vitamin supplements to consider are beta-carotene, and vitamins C, E and A.
Warnings
It is important to note that patients on chemotherapy treatment for existing cancers should not begin an antioxidant diet or supplement plan, as the antioxidants, while instrumental in prevention of cancers, will counteract the effects of chemotherapy. Never begin a new diet or supplement program without first consulting with your doctor.
Sources
Preventcancer.org from the article: <em>Reduce Your Risk</em> Publication date unknown
Mayoclinic.com from the article: <em>Cancer prevention: 7 steps to reduce your risk</em> Published Sept. 27, 2008
