42 percent of the cancer cases in the United States may be preventable, according to a new study and researchers from the American Cancer Society.
While some cancers, such as those that are hereditary, are beyond one’s control, researchers who conducted a new study found that nearly half of American cancer cases may be prevented through changing habits and avoiding certain activities now known to contribute to the development of cancer.
Dr. Otis Brawley, chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society, calls the new study ”the most extensive review” to date, WebMD reports.
Cigarette smoking was linked to the highest percent of cancer cases, at 19%, and the highest number of cancer-related deaths at 28%. Smoking rates are higher in men than women, thus cancer-related to smoking affected more men.
Bodyweight was accountable for approximately 8% of cancer cases and 6.5% of cancer-related deaths. Excess weight was a factor at twice the rate for women versus men.
Alcohol was linked to 5.6% of cancer-related cases and 4% of cancer-related deaths. Alcohol-related risk factor for women was 6.4% and 4.8% in men.
You can get a DNA to see what cancers might run in your family. While you can’t alter your genes, you can avoid anything that might make you a higher risk. This is also a good way to know if you need any extra screenings. If any of these cancers run in your family, you can start working with your primary care doctor for a plan of action.
Remember, the earlier detection, the higher your chance of beating this aggressive disease.
