Cancer Causing Factors: American cancer society identifies 6 factors that are linked to almost half of all cancer cases |

cancer Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It is a complex challenge that affects millions of people worldwide. Although cancer takes many lives each year, some risk factors are within our control. Addressing these modifiable factors through a healthy lifestyle, such as quitting smoking, eating nutritious foods, being active, using sunscreen and limiting alcohol consumption, can reduce the incidence of cancer and save significant lives.
A new study published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, a flagship cancer research journal, American Cancer Society By modifying six risk factors, approximately 50% of cancer cases can be prevented.
According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer led the number of cancer cases (201,660) and deaths (122,740) attributable to the assessed risk factors, followed by female breast cancer (83,840), cutaneous melanoma (82,710), and colorectal cancer (78,440) in terms of the number of cases and deaths attributable to colorectal cancer (25,800 deaths), liver cancer (14,720), and esophageal cancer (13,600). The high number of cancer cases and deaths in the United States is potentially Modifiable Risk Factors.
Potential risk factors

Overall, the researchers analyzed 18 modifiable risk factors across 30 cancer types.

One of the ultimate solutions to reduce your cancer risk: Quitting smoking

Smoking has emerged as the most dominant modifiable risk factor for cancer, responsible for approximately 20% of cancer cases and about one-third of cancer-related deaths. The impact of smoking extends to many different types of cancer, most notably lung cancer, but also bladder, pharyngeal, and pancreatic cancers. The harmful effects of tobacco smoke are multifaceted, ranging from directly introducing carcinogens into the body to promoting genetic mutations, impairing immune function, and facilitating tumor initiation and progression.

Excess weight has a significant impact on the development of cancer

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, breast cancer (postmenopausal), esophageal cancer, and more. Being overweight is more than just a number on the scale; it has a profound effect on cancer treatment and outcomes in multiple ways. Carrying extra weight causes complex changes in our bodies that can encourage cancer to grow and make it more difficult to treat.

Excess body fat produces hormones and growth factors that promote inflammation and cell proliferation, creating an environment conducive to cancer development and progression. For example, in breast cancer, adipose tissue can increase estrogen levels, stimulating hormone receptor-positive tumors.
Additionally, obesity can complicate cancer treatment itself. Surgeries can be technically more challenging and come with a higher risk of wound complications and infections. Radiotherapy may be less effective in obese patients because it is harder to target the tumor precisely and there is increased toxicity to surrounding healthy tissue. Chemotherapy doses may need to be adjusted, as distribution of drugs into fatty tissue can alter efficacy.
The good news is that even modest weight loss can make a big difference.

Alcohol consumption is another notable risk factor.

Alcohol consumption increases the chance of developing cancer of the liver, mouth, throat, and breast. The impact of alcohol on cancer treatment is significant and often overlooked. The relationship between alcohol and cancer is well established, and even moderate drinking increases the risk of several cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, liver, breast, and colon.
During cancer treatment, alcohol can interfere with your body’s ability to heal and recover. For example, it can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off infections and recover from surgery. Alcohol can also affect the way your body processes drugs, which can make chemotherapy less effective or increase your risk of side effects.

Liver cancer, in particular, is directly related to alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking over a long period of time can cause cirrhosis of the liver and increase the chances of developing liver cancer. For people undergoing treatment for liver cancer, alcohol consumption can worsen liver damage and make recovery more difficult.
Reducing your alcohol intake or completely abstaining from alcohol can significantly improve the outcome of your cancer treatment.

Lack of physical activity correlates with increased cancer risk

Physical inactivity is increasingly recognized as a significant risk factor for cancer. Although it is well known that exercise has positive cardiovascular and muscular effects, it also plays an equally important role in reducing cancer risk. A sedentary lifestyle increases the chances of developing several types of cancer, including colorectal, breast (postmenopausal) and endometrial cancer.

The mechanisms linking physical inactivity and cancer risk are multifaceted. Regular exercise helps regulate hormones such as insulin and estrogen, both of which can promote cancer growth when levels are chronically elevated. Exercise supports a healthy immune system and is essential for early detection and removal of cancer cells before they can multiply.
Physical activity plays an important role in maintaining a healthy weight. Obesity, often caused by lack of exercise, is a significant risk factor for many cancers. Exercise helps burn excess calories, reduce fat tissue and maintain muscle mass, all of which translates into a lower overall cancer risk.

It increases circulation and oxygenation of tissues and reduces inflammation, which is a common denominator in many chronic diseases, including cancer. Improved circulation also increases the delivery of nutrients and the removal of waste products from cells, improving overall cellular health and resilience to cancerous changes.
Incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine doesn’t require extreme measures. Even moderate exercise like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can be beneficial. Small changes like taking the stairs instead of the elevator and scheduling short exercise breaks during the day can gradually increase your physical activity levels and reduce your cancer risk. By making exercise and regular exercise a priority, you can significantly improve your overall health and reduce your chances of developing cancer later in life.

Infections such as HPV (human papillomavirus) increase the risk of cancer

Infections such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) are directly associated with an increased risk of developing several types of cancer. HPV is a common virus that is transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity. While the body’s immune system is often able to clear HPV infections without causing symptoms, persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains can cause cellular changes that can progress to cancer over time.

HPV is particularly associated with cervical cancer, and nearly all cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV types. The virus can also cause cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx (the middle part of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils).
HPV vaccination has proven to be highly effective in preventing infection with the most common cancer-causing strains of the virus. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls before they become sexually active, ideally between the ages of 9 and 12, as this is the age at which they develop the best immune response. Regular screening, such as Pap smears for cervical cancer, allows early detection of pre-cancerous changes and allows timely intervention and treatment.

“These findings support that widespread and equitable implementation of known prevention strategies, including excise taxes on tobacco to reduce smoking, testing and treatment for HCV infection, and vaccination against HCV, could significantly reduce cancer incidence and premature mortality in the United States. HPV infection“, say the researchers.
How do we make these changes?
Reducing your cancer risk through lifestyle changes involves practical steps that anyone can take. Start by quitting smoking. This is the single most effective action you can take. Seek support from friends, family and smoking cessation programs. It’s hard, but it’s extremely rewarding for your health. Second, maintain a healthy weight with balanced nutrition and regular exercise. Focus on a diet rich in colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein, while limiting processed foods, sugar and fat.

Stay active. Find an activity you enjoy, like walking, dancing or a sport – all of these can lower your risk of cancer. Limit your alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol in moderation is key to reducing your risk of cancers such as breast and liver. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, hats and clothing to help prevent skin cancer.
Get vaccinated against viruses such as HPV and Hepatitis B that can cause certain cancers. Regular tests and check-ups are also important. Early detection saves lives. Always remember that small changes add up to big changes. Gradually incorporating these steps into your daily life will have a lasting effect. The choices you make today can have a big impact on your future cancer risk. Equip yourself and take control of your health.