Among all the cancers that affect both men and women, lung cancer is the deadliest. In the recent data published by the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that around 155,870 people will die from lung cancer. This is more than colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer combined.
There are many risk factors for developing lung cancer, including smoking, secondhand smoke exposure, air pollution, and asbestos exposure. However, there are also many ways you can reduce your risk of developing this deadly disease. Here are ten easy tips to help keep you healthy!
- Quit smoking or don’t start. This is the number one way to reduce your risk of lung cancer. If you already smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health. The earlier you quit, the better. When you quit smoking, your risk of lung cancer decreases with each year that passes.
- Avoid secondhand smoke. If you can’t avoid being around smokers, try to stay in well-ventilated areas and limit your exposure as much as possible. You can encourage your friends or family members who smoke to quit, too. This will help protect their health as well as yours.
- Test your home for Radon. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in the soil. It can enter your home through cracks in the foundation and build up to dangerous levels. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, so it’s important to test your home and take steps to reduce Radon levels if necessary.
- Limit your exposure to air pollution. Air pollution, both outdoors and indoors, can increase your risk of lung cancer. To reduce your exposure, try to avoid heavily trafficked areas and stay inside when air pollution levels are high.
- Get your home tested for asbestos. Asbestos is a material that was once used in insulation and other building materials. It can cause lung cancer if it’s inhaled, so it’s important to have your home tested for asbestos if it was built before 1980. If asbestos is found, it’s important to have it removed by a professional.
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables can help protect against lung cancer. Aside from their cancer-fighting properties, fruits and vegetables are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are good for your overall health. This means they can help reduce your risk of other diseases as well.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise has many benefits for your health, including reducing your risk of lung cancer. It helps to improve lung function and also reduces inflammation throughout the body. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week can make a difference. If you’re not used to exercising, start slow and gradually increase your activity level.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of lung cancer, so it’s important to maintain a healthy weight. You can do this by eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. If you need help achieving or maintaining a healthy weight, talk to your doctor.
- Get regular screenings. If you’re a current or former smoker or you have a family history of lung cancer, you should get regular screenings. Screenings can help catch lung cancer early when it’s most treatable. All you need is a simple X-ray or low-dose CT scan. These tests are quick, painless, and could save your life.
- Know the symptoms of lung cancer. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of lung cancer so you can catch it early. Symptoms include a cough that doesn’t go away, shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness, and weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.
These are just a few ways you can reduce your risk of lung cancer. By making lifestyle changes and getting regular screenings, you can make a big difference in your health. So don’t wait, take steps to reduce your risk today.
Do you have any other tips for reducing your risk of lung cancer? Share them with us in the comments below!
