October 7, 2024

Your Health, Your Power—Helping to Prevent Cancer with Smart Choices

Your Health, Your Power—Helping to Prevent Cancer with Smart Choices

Ladies, it’s time to talk about something that’s as important as your morning coffee—your health! A recent study published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians reveals some eye-opening facts about how lifestyle choices may impact cancer risk. And the best part? Many of these risks are totally within your power to modify.

The Numbers You Need to Know

According to the study, 40% of all cancer cases and 44% of cancer deaths in adults over 30 in the U.S. are linked to potentially modifiable risk factors. That’s right—nearly half! The biggies? Cigarette smoking, excess body weight, and alcohol consumption. For women, excess body weight is particularly concerning as it’s linked to postmenopausal breast cancer.

What’s Putting You at Risk?

  1. Smoking: It’s no surprise that smoking tops the list, accounting for 19.3% of all cancer cases. Whether you’re an ex-smoker or still battling the habit, quitting is the single best thing you can do for your health.
  2. Excess Body Weight: Here’s a wake-up call—7.6% of all cancer cases are due to carrying extra pounds. And it’s not just about vanity; it’s about your life. This includes an increased risk for postmenopausal breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and more.
  3. Alcohol: That nightly glass of wine? It could be doing more harm than good. Alcohol is responsible for 5.4% of all cancer cases, including breast cancer.
  4. Diet and Physical Activity: Skipping your veggies and lounging on the couch? That’s a double whammy. Low consumption of fruits, vegetables, dietary fiber, and physical inactivity are all significant risk factors.

Empower Yourself—Take Action!

So, what can you do? Here are some quick tips:

  • Kick the Habit: If you smoke, seek help to quit. It’s never too late.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Remember, exercise is your friend—aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week.
  • Limit Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can increase your cancer risk, especially for breast cancer. The safest choice is to reduce or eliminate alcohol from your diet.
  • Sun Protection: Don’t forget the sunscreen! UV radiation is a significant cause of skin cancer.

Menopause is a time of transition, but it’s also an opportunity to take charge of your health. By making these simple, everyday changes, you’re reducing your cancer risk and embracing a healthier, happier you. So, let’s start today because your health is your most valuable asset.

Stay fearless, fabulous, and informed!

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*EllenDolgen.com does not recommend, endorse, or make any representation about any tests, studies, practices, procedures, treatments, services, opinions, healthcare providers, physicians, or medical institutions that may be mentioned or referenced. The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained on this website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other healthcare provider.

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