Cancer is the second leading cause of death in European Union countries after cardiovascular disease, but only 10% of cases are of genetic origin, while 40% of cancers detected each year could be prevented by lifestyle changes. This means that the risk of cancer can be significantly reduced, if we take into account a few simple tips from doctors.
The National Cancer Institute (INCa) in France recently published a guide with practical prevention tips, dismantled myths, simple and clear ideas and plans with which we can be and stay healthy, writes csid.ro,
Specialists have included among the causes that favor the appearance of cancer excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, unbalanced diet, excess weight and pollution.
Many of them can be eliminated if we change our daily habits and if we understand that certain choices really hurt us.
Obesity is associated with the appearance of 13 types of cancer
A balanced diet is extremely important because it prevents obesity, which is associated with the occurrence of no less than 13 different types of cancer: colon, rectum, pancreas, gastric, bile duct, esophageal, endometrial, breast, ovarian, kidney and bone marrow cancer, according to csid.ro.
Marie-Line Huc, a dietitian-nutritionist, says that fruits, vegetables and whole or unrefined cereal products have important health benefits.
“Thus, it is important to eat five fruits and vegetables and a whole grain product daily, organic or not,” the doctor recommends.
Alcohol consumption, a risk factor
The risk of cancer is higher for those who consume alcohol, especially in excess.
Ethanol has been classified as a “defined carcinogen” since 1988. In 2015 alone, for example, it is estimated that it caused 41,000 deaths in France, of which over 40% were caused by cancer.
According to experts, alcohol is twice as harmful when associated with smoking.
“The marketing strategies of alcohol producers are very cynical and sophisticated. For the target audience of young people, the goal of the producers is to offer them cheap products that focus on flavors and tastes, such as the common strawberry mojito. Cheap and aromatic drinks are an access ramp to more classic products “, says Karine Gallopel-Morvan, university professor specialized in Social Marketing at the School of Higher Studies in Public Health, quoted by csid.ro.
The main risk factor for cancer is smoking
Smoking remains one of the top risk factors for cancer, but it is also the first to be prevented. A cigarette is made of tobacco, paper and products that change its taste and smell. Once ignited, its combustion causes the formation of many toxic substances.
As for nicotine, a substance naturally present in tobacco, it is responsible for cigarette addiction, but it is not carcinogenic.
There are several options for those who want to quit smoking, such as nicotine substitutes (patch, chewing gum, inhaler). Those who cannot give up nicotine can opt for the electronic cigarette.
“The e-cigarette does not contain tobacco and does not work by burning. When you vaporize, the aromatic liquid (which may contain nicotine) is heated and turns into drops, vapor. Air. This helps you avoid most of the carcinogens in cigarettes. The e-cigarette actually helps you quit smoking. It can be a tool that helps you quit smoking. Used alone, not in conjunction with traditional cigarettes, it helps reduce the risks associated with smoking, ”according to a guide developed by the French National Cancer Institute.
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