Tips for Smokers on Cancer Prevention: Doable Actions That Continue to Have an Impact

Cancer Prevention Isn’t Too Late: Actions That Still Make a Difference

Smoking continues to be the leading preventable cause of cancer globally and cancer prevention starts with awareness. Smokers can still take significant actions to prevent cancer or detect it early even though quitting is the most effective way to lower their risk of developing the disease. Making healthy changes some of which can save lives is something you can do at any time. 

The Most Effective Step is to Stop Smoking

To lower the risk of cancer the most crucial thing a smoker can do is to stop smoking. 

• Within weeks of stopping lung function and circulation improve. 
• After a year the risk of heart disease drastically decreases. 
• Lung cancer risk can be lowered by as much as 50% in 10 to 15 years getting close to that of nonsmokers. 
• Behavioral therapy prescription drugs like varenicline or bupropion and nicotine patches or gum are all tools for quitting.

Adopt Appropriate Cancer Screening

Life is saved by early detection through routine screening. 

• To identify lung cancer early low-dose CT scans are advised for high-risk adults (usually those between the ages of 50 and 80 who have a substantial smoking history). 
• Lung cancer mortality can be decreased by 20–25% through screening. 
• Because long-term smokers are more likely to develop head and neck cancers it is imperative that they have regular oral cavity and throat examinations performed by dentists or ENT specialists.

Improve Your Diet

One important factor in reducing the risk of cancer is eating a balanced diet. 

• Make antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables a priority. 
• Select whole grains instead of refined carbs. 
• Red and processed meats are associated with some types of cancer so stay away from them. Keep your weight in check because obesity increases the risk of developing cancer.

Keep Yourself Physically Active

Inflammation is decreased, hormones are balanced and the immune system is strengthened by exercise. 

• Aim for 150 minutes or more per week of moderate exercise such as brisk walking. 
• Additionally exercise strengthens the lungs and increases endurance which is frequently diminished in smokers.

Read More : Sun Exposure and the Need for UV Eye Protection in Relation to Eye Health

Limit Your Intake of Alcohol

In particular alcohol and tobacco increase the risk of esophageal throat and oral cancers. 

• This risk is greatly reduced by reducing or giving up alcohol.
• Less is always better but the WHO advises men to limit their daily alcohol intake to two standard drinks and women to one.

Prevent exposure to secondhand smoke

Prevent secondhand smoke exposure for your loved ones particularly children and the elderly. 

• Create smoke-free areas in houses and cars. 
• Reducing exposure to passive smoke has advantages for others and can be a strong incentive to reduce personal smoking.

Read More : 8 Drinks to Have Right Before Bed That Help You Burn Fat While You Sleep

Put an End to the Myth that Damage is Done

Despite what science says many smokers think its too late to change their behavior. 

• Significant health benefits can be achieved even after years of smoking according to studies. 
• Even cutting back on daily cigarette consumption while trying to quit can have positive long-term effects. 
• The best way to prevent cancer is still to quit but even little changes make a big difference. Even if you take these preventative measures gradually they can greatly reduce your risk of developing cancer and enhance your general quality of life.

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