To avoid cancer treatment, we must avoid cancer. Healthy habits can decrease the risk of disease overall. Here are 5 bad habits that may increase your risk of cancer.

1. Eating an Unhealthy Diet

This may be one of the most important habits to focus on when you want to decrease your cancer risk. Eat a diet high in nutrient-rich fruits and veggies, and avoiding red meat and processed foods. Avoid soda and artificial sweeteners, and opt for water when possible. While some studies show correlation between unhealthy food consumption and cancer risk (as opposed to causation) you can’t deny that a healthy immune system will help prevent disease overall.

2. Not Exercising Enough

Taking care of the body is essential to lifelong health. According to the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, some evidence suggests that a sedentary lifestyle may increase the risk of cancer. You should exercise for at least one to three hours per week, depending on the intensity of the exercise. If you work a sedentary job, making sure you get enough exercise is especially important.

3. Drinking Too Much Alcohol

Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol greatly increases the risk of cancer. While there are many suspected carcinogens, alcohol is one of the known human carcinogens. In addition, alcohol is known to cause liver disease, high blood pressure, and anxiety and depression. Eliminate alcohol consumption if possible, or drink in moderation.

4. Allowing Yourself to be Overly Stressed

It’s no surprise that the mind and body are connected. Your body’s response to stress includes high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and high blood sugar. Stress can also lead to other poor habits, such as overeating, smoking, and drinking alcohol. These all have been linked to cancer.

5. Poor Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing may go beyond dental health. A study from the Journal of the National Cancer Institute suggested that gum disease increases the risk of lung and colorectal cancer by 24%.

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If you’ve already been diagnosed with cancer, you may be curious about treatment options offered at Orange County CyberKnife. Feel free to give us a call at (714) 962-7100 or leave a question on our Contact Page.