As we know cancer is a dangerous disease. We cannot predict the occurence of the disease as it can happen to anyone irrespective of age group, gender and region. But it is also in our hands to reduce the risk by avoiding few foods and other causes of cancer.
Cancer is the growth of damaged gene cells in our body. There are various types of cancers. Many of these are treatable when detected at an early stage. It is also said that a few types of cancers are treatable and not curable. That means, the symptoms and side effects of cancer can be controlled through medications and other therapies but these cells cannot be completely wiped out from our body.
It is really difficult to get back to normal life even after being treated completely. There will be many restrictions and if the cancer-causing cells are still present in the body, they can bounce back any time creating a life threat. Thus, doctors from the best cancer hospital in Bangalore advise to avoid all the risk factors that may cause cancer.
Some of the causes of cancer
Tobacco
Tobacco is one of the leading causes of cancer. Lung, mouth, lip, larynx, pharynx and other oral cancers are caused due to tobacco. Smoking cigarettes and bidi, chewing gutkha, paan, and other tobacco products are dangerous to health.
Passive smoking, i.e, inhaling the cigarette smoke left by a smoker can also lead to cancer. It may cause lung cancer.
The best prevention is to quit smoking and the consumption of other tobacco products. This is beneficial for the health of the consumer as well as the people around him.
Alcohol
Alcohol causes damage to the cells and tissues in our body. These cells try to repair themselves which may lead to DNA changes in the cells. This on a large scale causes cancer. Alcohol also dries the skin in the mouth and the cells are damaged due to the chemicals present in alcohol.
This leads to various oral cancers like mouth, lip, food pipe etc.
No matter which type of alcohol you consume, everything triggers cancer in various parts of the body. Breast, bowel, and liver, are some of the other types of cancer that are caused by alcohol. It is recommended to reduce or quit drinking for better health.
Obesity
13 different types of cancers are caused due to obesity and overweight. Excessive body fat causes disturbances in the regular functioning of various organs and systems in the body. It also affects the hormonal balances and other important secretions from various glands.
The improper functioning of the body is a major factor for cancer. Breast, kidney, uterine, pancreatic and various other cancers are caused by being overweight.
Regular exercises and physical activities should be done to reduce the fat content in the body and also for the active functioning of various systems in the body.
Diet
Not all foods are healthy in all ways. There are some types of foods which lead to cancer growth. Red meat like beef, pork, lamb, etc can cause cancer. Processed meats like sausages, bacon, hot dogs etc are harmful to health. Sugary beverages like soft drinks, carbonated drinks should also be avoided. Refined grains and other products are unhealthy.
Improper and unhealthy diet leads to various cancers like stomach, kidney, breast, intestinal and many more.
Processed and canned foods with artificial sweeteners should be avoided. They should be replaced with fresh fruits and vegetables, low calorie foods, and fibre rich substances.
Excessive sun exposure
Sun rays contain Ultraviolet or UV radiation. Excessive exposure to sun or sunbeds causes damage to the genetic material in our cells. If the DNA damage continues it might lead to skin cancer. It is recommended to protect our skin from UV radiation by using sunscreens regularly or by staying in the shade. Too much exposure to the sun leads to eye damage, skin damage and immune system suppression.
Viral and bacterial infections
It is proven that around 15 – 20% cancers are caused due to viral infections. Cervical cancers, liver cancer, etc., are caused due to various viruses like hepatitis B and C, human papillomavirus, etc. Viral or bacterial infections left untreated may develop into cancer.
It is recommended to take required vaccines and treat the infections in time to prevent cancer.
The above suggestions are given by the doctors from the best cancer hospitals in Bangalore. Making an effort to change your lifestyle and follow these habits can reduce the risk of cancer to a great extent. Our health depends upon the choices we make and the lifestyle we follow. Healthier choices result in a healthier life.
