New Delhi, February 4: Cancer is a disease that instills fear in many. Experts believe that adopting healthy habits and avoiding harmful ones can significantly reduce the risk of this illness. Every year on February 4, World Cancer Day is observed globally to raise awareness about cancer, understand its causes, and focus on prevention methods.
The Ministry of AYUSH in India offers simple yet effective suggestions for cancer prevention. Incorporating these habits into daily routines can greatly diminish the risk of developing cancer and improve overall health.
According to the ministry, the most crucial step in cancer prevention is to completely avoid tobacco and all its products, including cigarettes, gutkha, bidis, paan masala, and hookah. Tobacco is one of the leading causes of cancer, particularly affecting the mouth, lungs, throat, and stomach.
Another important factor is maintaining a balanced body weight. Obesity increases the risk of various cancers, such as breast, colon, kidney, and uterine cancer. Therefore, keeping a healthy weight is essential.
Regular exercise and physical activity are also vital. Engaging in at least 30-45 minutes of walking, yoga, cycling, or any form of physical exercise daily can significantly lower cancer risk.
Additionally, increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, and nutritious foods is recommended. Consuming colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and minimally processed foods boosts antioxidants in the body, which help combat cancer cells.
Lastly, regular health check-ups are crucial for cancer prevention. Following a doctor’s advice for timely screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies, can help detect cancer in its early stages, making treatment easier and more successful.
