img

Cancer Risk Factors:  Cancer cases are increasing rapidly in India. Its cases are also increasing rapidly among the youth. There can be many causes (Cancer Risk Factors) for this deadly disease.

 

Some of these reasons are related to our daily habits (Cancer-Causing Daily Habits). Here are some habits that can increase the risk of cancer. 

 

Cancer-causing habits

  • Smoking- Smoking is the biggest cause of cancer. It can cause cancer of the lungs, mouth, throat, urinary bladder and many other organs. Cigarettes, bidis, tobacco and other tobacco products contain carcinogens, which damage cells and promote cancer growth.
  • Drinking alcohol- Drinking alcohol also increases the risk of cancer, especially mouth, throat, liver and breast cancer. Alcohol contains ethanol, which is a carcinogen. Even drinking a small amount of alcohol can cause cancer in the future. 
  • Unhealthy diet- An unhealthy diet, which is low in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and high in fat, sugar and processed food items, can increase the risk of cancer. Eating too much fat and sugar can lead to obesity, which increases the risk of cancer. Processed food items often contain harmful chemicals that can cause cancer.

These other reasons also increase the risk

  • Obesity- Obesity increases the risk of several types of cancer, such as breast, uterine, colon, and kidney cancer. Obesity causes inflammation and hormonal changes in the body, which can promote cancer development.
  • Lack of physical activity- Not exercising regularly can also increase the risk of cancer. Exercise strengthens the immune system and helps keep the body healthy.
  • Excessive exposure to sunlight- Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can cause skin cancer. Staying in the sun for a long time increases the risk of skin cancer.
  • Some infections. Some infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B and C, can cause cancer. HPV can cause cervical cancer , while hepatitis B and C can cause liver cancer.
  • Pollution- Air pollution and water pollution can also increase the risk of cancer. Polluted air and water contain harmful chemicals that can damage cells and promote cancer growth.
  • Some chemicals- Some chemicals can also increase the risk of cancer. Chemicals like asbestos, benzene and some pesticides can cause cancer.
  • Genetic factors- Some people are at a higher risk of developing cancer due to genetic factors. If you have a family history of cancer, you should talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of developing cancer.

It is important to note that many of these habits can be changed to reduce the risk of cancer. Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive sun exposure are some ways to reduce the risk of cancer.