Cancer may seem like an old person’s disease, but studies have shown That certain types have become increasingly prevalent among Americans under 50.
recent research he got it Gen X And Millennial Americans have a higher risk of developing 17 cancers than older generations. Colon Cancer Diagnosis RatesFor example, there has been a 15% increase among adults aged 18 to 44 over the past 20 years.
“Many of my patients were told they were too young to worry about colorectal cancer,” Dr. Elena Stoffel, Professor of Gastroenterology at the University of Michigan and Director of Rozelle Cancer Genetics Clinic, said last week“But we all know no one is too young to have cancer.”
University of Michigan physicians are sharing nine ways to reduce your risk of early cancer — talk to your doctor about your family history of cancer and any unusual symptoms, stop smoking, limit alcohol useEat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, wear sunscreenStay protected from human papillomavirus (HPV) and Limit exposure to pollutants,
talk to your doctor
“It’s incredibly important to talk to your doctor about your family history of cancer,” Stoffel said.
“If you say, ‘Actually, I have several people in my family, all of whom have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer,’ that should raise alarm bells,” he said.
Stoffel said that those who have Hereditary predisposition to colon cancer They may have to start undergoing colonoscopies as early as the age of 20. People at average risk should start screening at age 45.
In addition to sharing their family history, patients should also talk to their doctor about any unusual symptoms.
“That discussion should integrate what we know about you, your family history, your health habits and behaviors, to come up with a plan for how we can better care for you, with your investment in this process,” Stoffel explains. can be developed.”
stop smoking
There are more than 1.25 billion tobacco users worldwide, According to World Health Organization data for 2022Even as many people say goodbye to their cigarettes,
According to the American Cancer Societysmoking is responsible 20% of cancer cases in America and approximately 30% of cancer deaths. and lung cancer cases and deaths are expected to grow significantly In the next 25 years.
One study estimates that 1.2 million lung cancer Banning the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to Gen Zers born between 2006 and 2010 could prevent 70 million deaths worldwide.
limit alcohol consumption
Research is increasingly finding that drink a little wine Can be harmful to health.
metabolizes alcohol DNA damaging toxinAlcohol can make it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients, cause inflammation and cause liver damage over time.
eat healthy diet
Studies have shown that A person’s eating habits can affect They are likely to develop many types of cancer.
Researchers have warned A high-fat, low-fiber Western diet may cause changes in the gut that increase the risk of early colorectal cancer.
University of Michigan experts recommend prioritizing whole grains, fruits and vegetables and limited Red meat, processed meat, sugar and unrefined grains.
get enough sleep
Experts generally recommend adults get seven to nine hours Of night’s sleep.
Poor sleep disrupts the body’s 24-hour biological clock, affecting hormone balance and potentially increasing the risk of developing cancers of the breast, colon, ovaries, and prostate. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine,
Exercise regularly
Exercise can prevent Obesity, which promotes many types of cancerWorking out keeps hormones under control, inflammation goes away, digestive system remains healthy and immune system remains healthy.
wear sunscreen
One-third of American adults admitted In a recent survey They never wear sunscreen, which is especially worrying because Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer In America.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends Wear an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays.
Some dermatologists recommend two finger lengths It is advisable to apply sunblock on your face.
stay safe from hpv
have hpv most common With sexually transmitted infections in America at least 13 million New infections are reported each year.
This virus is a major risk factor oropharyngeal cancerA type of head and neck cancer.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention It is recommended to get vaccinated against HPV at age 11 or 12 or at age 9.
Limit exposure to pollutants
Researchers at the University of Michigan recommend using air filters and testing well water for pollutants to reduce indoor air pollution.
