Cancer-Causing Factors: American Cancer Society Identifies 6 Factors Linked to Nearly Half of All Cancer Cases |

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It is a complex challenge that affects millions of people worldwide. It claims many lives each year, but some risk factors are within our control. By addressing these modifiable factors through healthier lifestyles – quitting smoking, eating nutritious foods, staying active, wearing sunscreen and moderating alcohol – we can reduce the number of cancer cases and save significant lives.
A new study published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, the premier journal of the American Cancer Society Nearly 50% of all cancer cases can be prevented by making changes to 6 risk factors.
The American Cancer Society study said: Lung cancer had the highest number of cancer cases (201,660) and deaths (122,740) attributable to evaluated risk factors, followed by female breast cancer (83,840 cases), cutaneous melanoma (82,710), and colorectal cancer (78,440) for attributable cases and by colorectal (25,800 deaths), liver (14,720), and esophageal (13,600) cancers for attributable deaths. Large numbers of cancer cases and deaths in the United States are attributable to potential modifiable risk factors.
The potential risk factors

In total, researchers analyzed 18 modifiable risk factors for 30 types of cancer.

One of the ultimate solutions to reduce cancer risk: STOP SMOKING

Smoking has emerged as the most dominant modifiable risk factor for cancer, implicated in nearly 20% of cancer cases and nearly one-third of cancer-related deaths. Its impact extends across several types of cancer, most notably lung cancer, but also to other types such as bladder, throat and pancreatic cancer. The harmful impact of tobacco smoke is multifaceted, from directly introducing carcinogens into the body to promoting genetic mutations and impairing immune function, thereby promoting tumor development and progression.

Obesity contributes significantly to the incidence of cancer

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of colorectal, breast (postmenopausal), and esophageal cancers, among others. Being overweight is not just a number on a scale; it has a major impact on cancer treatment and outcomes in a number of ways. When we carry extra weight, our bodies undergo complex changes that can fuel cancer growth 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, fat tissue can increase estrogen levels, which can stimulate hormone receptor-positive tumors.
In addition, obesity can complicate cancer treatment itself. Surgical procedures may be more technically difficult and carry higher risks, such as wound complications or infections. Radiation therapy may be less effective in obese patients due to difficulty in accurately targeting tumors and increased toxicity to surrounding healthy tissue. Chemotherapy doses may need to be adjusted because the distribution of the drug in fatty tissue can alter its effectiveness.
Fortunately, even a little bit of weight loss can make a big difference.

Alcohol use is another notable risk factor

Alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing cancers of the liver, mouth, throat and breast. The effects on cancer treatment are profound and often overlooked. The link between alcohol and cancer is well established, with even moderate drinking increasing the risk of several cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, liver, breast and colon.
During cancer treatment, alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to heal and recover. For example, it can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections or recover from surgery. Alcohol also affects the way medications are processed in the body, potentially reducing the effectiveness of chemotherapy or increasing the risk of side effects.

Liver cancer in particular is directly linked to alcohol consumption. Excessive drinking can lead to cirrhosis over time, which increases the risk of liver cancer. For people undergoing treatment for liver cancer, alcohol consumption can worsen liver damage and make recovery more difficult.
Reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption can significantly improve cancer treatment outcomes.

Physical inactivity correlates with increased risk of cancer

Physical inactivity is increasingly recognized as a major risk factor for cancer. While exercise is known for its cardiovascular and muscular benefits, its role in reducing cancer risk is equally crucial. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to a higher risk of developing several types of cancer, including colon, breast (postmenopausal) and uterine cancer.

The mechanisms linking physical inactivity to cancer risk are multifaceted. Regular physical activity helps regulate hormones like insulin and estrogen, both of which can promote cancer growth when levels are chronically elevated. Exercise supports a healthy immune system, which is crucial for detecting and eliminating early cancer cells before they can multiply.
Physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body weight. Obesity, often a result of insufficient exercise, is a major risk factor for many types of cancer. Exercise helps burn excess calories, reduce fat tissue, and maintain muscle mass, all of which contribute to a lower overall risk of cancer.

It promotes better circulation and oxygenation of tissues, which can reduce inflammation, a common denominator in many chronic diseases, including cancer. Improved circulation also improves the delivery of nutrients and the removal of waste products from cells, supporting overall cellular health and resilience to cancerous changes.
Incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine doesn’t require extreme measures; even moderate activities like brisk walking, swimming, or biking can make a difference. Small changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or scheduling short breaks throughout the day, can gradually increase physical activity and reduce your risk of cancer. By prioritizing movement and regular exercise, people can significantly improve their overall health and reduce their risk of cancer later in life.

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

Infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV) have been directly linked to an increased risk of developing several types of cancer. HPV is a common virus that is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity. Although the body’s immune system can often clear HPV infections without symptoms, persistent infections with high-risk strains of HPV can lead to cellular changes that can lead to cancer over time.

HPV is most commonly associated with cervical cancer, with nearly all cases caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV types. The virus can also lead to cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx (the middle part of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils).
Vaccination against HPV has been shown 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 it provides the best immune response at this age. Regular screenings, such as cervical smears, can detect precancerous changes early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

“These findings confirm that cancer morbidity and premature mortality in the United States can be substantially reduced through broad and equitable implementation of well-known preventive initiatives, such as cigarette taxes to reduce smoking, screening for and treatment of HCV infection, and vaccination against HPV infection“, the researchers said.
How can I make these changes?
Reducing your cancer risk through lifestyle changes requires practical steps that everyone can take. Start by quitting smoking, which is the most impactful action in itself. Seek support from friends, family, or cessation programs—it’s tough, but incredibly rewarding for your health. Then, maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Focus on a diet rich in colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while limiting processed foods, sugars, and fats.

Stay active! Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s walking, dancing, or playing sports: they all help lower your cancer risk. Limit alcohol consumption; moderation is key to lowering your risk of cancers like breast and liver cancer. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, hats, and clothing to help prevent skin cancer.
Get vaccinated against viruses like HPV and hepatitis B, which can lead to certain types of cancer. Regular screenings and checkups are also crucial; early detection saves lives. Remember that small changes add up: gradually incorporate these steps into your routine for lasting benefits. The choices you make today can have a significant impact on your cancer risk tomorrow: educate yourself and take charge of your health!