Cancer Causes (cont.)
Alcohol
Having more than two drinks each day for many years may increase the
chance of developing cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, larynx, liver,
and breast. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol that a person
drinks. For most of these cancers, the risk is higher for a drinker who uses
tobacco.
| Doctors advise people who drink to do so in moderation. Drinking in
moderation means no more than one drink per day for women and no more than
two drinks per day for men. |
Poor diet, lack of physical activity, or being overweight
People who have a poor diet, do not have enough physical activity, or are
overweight may be at increased risk of several types of cancer. For example,
studies suggest that people whose diet is high in fat have an increased risk
of cancers of the colon, uterus, and prostate. Lack of physical activity and
being overweight are risk factors for cancers of the breast, colon,
esophagus, kidney, and uterus.
Choose a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Having a healthy diet, being physically active, and maintaining a healthy
weight may help reduce cancer risk. Doctors suggest the following:
- Eat well: A healthy diet includes plenty of foods that are high in fiber,
vitamins, and minerals. This includes whole-grain breads and cereals and 5
to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Also, a healthy diet means
limiting foods high in fat (such as butter, whole milk, fried foods, and red
meat).
- Be active and maintain a healthy weight: Physical activity can help
control your weight and reduce body fat. Most scientists agree that it is a
good idea for an adult to have moderate physical activity (such as brisk
walking) for at least 30 minutes on 5 or more days each week.
|
SOURCE: U.S. National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute
Last Editorial Review: 7/6/2007
- Chemotherapy - Explains chemotherapy, a drug treatment to kill cancer cells. Article includes descriptions, uses, and side effects, and care support.
- Lung Cancer - Get the facts on lung cancer treatment, diagnosis, staging, causes (smoking), types (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell), prevention, symptoms, warning signs and survival rates.
- Circumcision: The Medical Pros and Cons - Get information on the medical pros and cons of newborn circumcision. Circumcised infants have fewer UTIs. STDs and penis cancer are more common in uncircumcised men.
Latest Medical News
Cancer RSS