Cancer is a life-threatening disease and attributed to an abnormal growth of cells, which can occur in any part of the body. These cells keep growing and spreading to different parts of the body. Let us look at cancer risk factors and prevention tips so that we can prepare ourselves in case of an emergency.

1. Risk Factors
The important risk factors to consider for cancer are

• Age
  Among the most prominent cancer-related risk factors, age plays the biggest role. Research has found that cancer occurs mostly during old age; anyone above the age of 60 is at a higher risk. As one’s age increases, the probability of having cancer is higher.
• Alcohol
  Alcohol consumption increases your risk for cancer. A higher amount of alcohol consumption is positively linked to higher risk. Cancers that arise from drinking alcohol are esophageal, larynx, liver, or breast cancer.
• Tobacco
  Tobacco is another leading cause of cancer. Whether you are chewing or smoking tobacco, your chances are high. Research also suggests that those who are constantly in the presence of smokers and take up secondhand smoking are at a much higher risk of developing cancer.

2. Prevention Tips
A few cancer prevention ideas include

• Following a Healthy Diet
  This is one of the easiest and best methods to prevent cancer, even in old age. Increase the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables and include nuts in your diet. Keep a check on your intake of processed foods, as they contain preservatives.
• Staying Away from Carcinogens
  Stay away from cancer-causing substances like lead, arsenic, coal tar, and smog. These irritants can build up inside your body due to which cells undergo mutation and cause cancer.
• Keeping Fit
  Staying fit implies eating well, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly. Maintaining a healthy weight might keep your cancer in check and reduce the chances of you getting breast or prostate cancer, lung cancer, or kidney cancer.
• Avoiding Direct and Harsh Sunlight
  Try to steer clear of harsh sun rays to prevent skin cancer. Stay either indoors or under the shade during the peak hours of the day. Apply sunscreen lotion if you need to step out and say goodbye to excessive tanning.
• Getting Vaccinated
  Certain vaccines taken for infections can help prevent cancer. For instance, vaccination for hepatitis C can help reduce the chances of liver cancer and human papillomavirus vaccination can prevent cervical or genital cancers. We strongly recommend consulting your doctor before you take the vaccine.

The best way to keep yourself in check for cancer is to regularly visit your doctor at least twice a year for full-body check-ups. Doctors can guide you properly on the cancer risk factors and prevention tips by giving you the right advice.