Your body is made up of trillions of cells. Over your lifetime, these cells will naturally grow and divide when needed. Amongst them, the old or abnormal cells will die. Sometimes, this process may go wrong. Your body might keep creating new cells, while the old or abnormal cells may not die like they’re supposed to. This flawed process of the DNA cells is called cancer.
According to WHO, cancer accounts for 1 in 6 deaths, making it the leading cause of death worldwide. There’s a high probability that you or someone you know has been affected by it. Cancer can grow anywhere in the body. The leading form of cancer is lung cancer.
As the name suggests, lung cancer is a form of cancer that takes root in the lungs. Your lungs are spongy bags that are responsible for inhaling and exhaling oxygen and carbon dioxide, respectively. A lot of factors play a role in causing lung cancer. You can try and avoid them to reduce your chances of getting them.
How to prevent lung cancer?
Please remember that there is no sure shot way to prevent any form of cancer. The following tips can only help to reduce the risk:
1. Don’t smoke
A study suggests that people who smoke are 15 to 30 times more likely to get lung cancer than those who don’t. This is because tobacco is a toxic mix of over 7,000 chemicals. And at least 70 of these chemicals are known to cause cancer in humans and animals. Some people live under the false assumption that smoking is only hazardous to regular smokers. But that isn’t true. You are increasing your chances of lung cancer with every cigarette you smoke. So, say no to cigarettes for a healthy future.
Many smokers believe that it’s too late for them to restore their health, but they are wrong. People who quit smoking have a lesser chance of getting lung cancer than those who continue to smoke. Stopping at any age can significantly reduce your risks. Of course, you’re still at a higher risk than someone who has never smoked at all. But still, try quitting smoking for your own good.
2. Avoid second hand smoking
Unfortunately, those who don’t smoke are still at risk. WHO reports that exposure to second hand smoking causes about 1-2 million deaths every year. The effect of inhaling second hand smoke is the same as actually smoking. Some people believe that the side effects of passive smoking are even worse. If you live under the roof of a smoker, urge him/her to quit or at least smoke outside. Avoid frequenting areas where people are free to smoke indoors.
3. Test your home for radon
Radon is the leading cause behind lung cancer for non-smokers. It is a colorless and odorless naturally-occurring radioactive gas. Radon is not an issue when it is outdoors as it disperses rapidly. But, when found indoors, it can be quite hazardous to health. It enters indoor spaces through cracks and other holes in the foundation. So, it is a wise choice to get the radon levels in your home checked.
4. Avoid carcinogens at work
At work, if your employer advises you to wear a mask to protect yourself from inhaling harmful chemicals, listen to them. You might be in danger of being exposed to harmful carcinogens at work. Constantly being present in such an environment can be harmful to your body. So strictly follow all the instructions you have been given.
5. Follow a healthy diet
Our mothers always told us to eat fruits and green, leafy vegetables growing up. Turns out they were right. While cigarette smoking is the biggest reason behind getting lung cancer, factors such as a diet play a key role in it as well. As per recent research, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables reduces the probability of lung cancer by as much as 25%. Following a healthy, nutritious diet is the best source of natural vitamins. A well-balanced diet can ensure that the inner workings of your body are well.
6. Don’t over-consume vitamin pills
As mentioned earlier, vitamins are necessary to ensure healthy bodily functions. But this does not mean that you can swap a nutritious diet with vitamin pills. For instance, researchers hoping to reduce the risk of lung cancer for heavy smokers patients prescribed them beta carotene supplements. Instead of improving their chances of living a healthy life, it increases the risk of lung cancer. So, stay away from these artificial pills and opt for all-natural nutrients instead.
7. Regularly exercise
Exercising activates several muscles in your body. It is important to keep your body sweating and your muscles working to ensure your cells regenerate properly. A healthy mind and body can ward off many diseases. It can even reduce the chances of several hereditary conditions. So, pay attention to your body, and in return, your body will take care of you.
If you or your loved one is suffering from lung cancer or any other form of cancer, trust Dr. P. K. Das for your treatment. You will feel safe under the supervision of their highly experienced team. Cancer is a very serious ailment, so don’t just go to any clinic; you need to go to the best. And Dr. P. K. Das, a cancer specialist, is the very best lung cancer doctor in Delhi NCR. Get your treatment started NOW!
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