Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, which is made up of trillions of cells.
Research shows that breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. In Nigeria, with a population of about 187 million people, breast cancer represents about 12% of all new cancer cases and 25% of all cancers in women. Adopting the right habits can decrease the risk of contracting cancer. These habits include:
1. Eating unhealthy foods
These appear to be the most important habits to focus on when you want to decrease your cancer risk. Focus on eating a diet rich in nutrient-rich fruits and veggies, and avoiding red meat and processed foods. Avoid soda and artificial sweeteners, rather drink more water.
2. Lack of exercise
Take care of your body, it would thank you and compensate you with longevity. 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. Taking too much alcohol
Avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol as this greatly increases the risk of cancer. While there are many suspected carcinogens, alcohol is one of the known human carcinogens know for cancerous growth. In addition, alcohol is known to cause liver disease, high blood pressure, and anxiety and depression.
4. Stress
The mind and body are connected. Have you noticed when you are full of life, your body glows? But when you have a negative mindset because of overstress your body responds with high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and high blood sugar. Besides stress can also lead to other poor habits, such as overeating, smoking, and drinking alcohol which are all linked to cancer.
5. Poor oral hygiene
Brushing and flossing goes 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%.