Did you know that by taking small steps every day to improve your health and lifestyle, you can decrease your risk of certain types of cancer? While no cancer is completely preventable, developing healthy habits can help your body function better and reduce your personal risk while improving many other aspects of your life as well.
According to the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), nearly 2 million Americans were diagnosed with cancer (other than non-melanoma skin cancer) during 2024, and more than 600,000 died from their disease. The AACR also states that over 40% of those cases and nearly half of the deaths could be attributed to preventable causes.
These preventable causes include:
- Smoking
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Excess body weight
- Physical inactivity
- Excessive exposure to the sun
- Not being vaccinated against cancer-causing pathogens
While there are many cancer risk factors that are out of your personal control (age, family history, etc.), these causes above can be addressed by creating or breaking habits and establishing healthier daily rhythms.
Smoking:
Do not start smoking. If you do smoke, make a step-by-step plan to quit by a certain date. Not sure where to start? The Nicotine-Free Living program at the Logan Health Medical Fitness Center offers a no cost support group to help individuals live free of tobacco and nicotine.
Drinking too much alcohol:
Cancer Research UK recommends a number of ways to limit your alcohol intake. Keep track of your drinking habits and make sure to have drink-free days. You can stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks or by trying a non-alcoholic version of your usual drink. Use smaller glasses when drinking at home and don’t stock up on alcohol. If you drink wine at home, you don’t need to finish the bottle; freeze your leftover wine in an ice tray to use for cooking. When out, try buying individual drinks instead of rounds and not topping off your drink, as this can make it difficult to tell how much you are drinking.
Additional resources:
- Learn about alcohol intake and cancer
- Do you know how much you drink? Test yourself with a drink calculator
Excess body weight and/or physical inactivity:
If you or your provider have concerns about excess weight or a lack of physical activity, develop a plan together to address your body’s specific needs. This usually involves introducing healthier habits and replacing unhealthy ones. Consider contacting a nutritionist or wellness coach to help you identify opportunities to grow in all aspects of wellness. Our Logan Health Medical Fitness Center offers health and wellness coaching that is individually tailored, as well as the Journey to Wellness program, both of which have greatly impacted people’s lives and inspired them to live and feel their best.
Excessive exposure to the sun:
When spending time outside, protect your skin from UV rays by wearing sunscreen and other forms of sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, long sleeves, and long pants. Check your skin often for new marks or blemishes.
Not being vaccinated against cancer-causing pathogens:
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can help prevent HPV infections, reducing the risk of several cancers including cervical cancer. Likewise, the Hepatitis B vaccine helps to prevent liver disease caused by the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), which, if serious, can cause liver cancer. Stay up to date on your family’s vaccination schedule to prevent these diseases and others.
Catching cancer early through screening measures
Not all cancer can be prevented. Fortunately, screening measures are an effective way for your health care team to find cancers or precancers before they spread and start causing symptoms. The easiest way to keep on top of your screenings is to talk with your primary care provider (and be sure to mention if your family has a history of any type of cancer). Your primary care provider can then recommend and help schedule screenings based on your age and risk factors. See the chart below to learn about screening guidelines for those at average risk.
About the Logan Health Cancer Program
Should you ever need cancer treatment, rest assured that you are in good hands. The cancer program at Logan Health is certified as a Comprehensive Community Cancer Program from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, and the Logan Health Breast Center is NAPBC accredited through the American College of Surgeons. These designations demonstrate that the quality of care provided is on par with top cancer centers nationwide. Learn more at logan.org/cancer