Here are the cold facts about lung cancer - it's hard to
find early and difficult to treat. However, lung cancer is also one of
the most preventable types of cancer. That is the good news! By avoiding
certain risk factors for lung cancer, we can reduce our chances of
developing it. Here are some steps in lung cancer prevention.
1. Quit Smoking - NOW
Smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer. It is estimated that 87% of lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking. As soon as you quit, your body reaps the benefits of being tobacco free. Quitting smoking is the BEST defense against lung cancer.
2. Eat fruits and veggies.
Fruits and vegetables are rich with antioxidants and flavonoids. Antioxidants and flavonoids help protect your cell's DNA and repair damaged cells.
3. Have your home tested for radon.
Radon is the result of broken down uranium. It is a radioactive gas that cannot be seen, felt, smelled or tasted. Uranium occurs naturally in the soil, and the fear is that homes are being built over natural deposits, creating high levels of indoor radon exposure, which can lead to lung cancer.
4. Know what you are being exposed to in the workplace.
If you are exposed to fumes, dust, chemicals, etc in the workplace, you have a right to know what you are being exposed to. Gasoline, diesel exhaust, arsenic, beryllium. vinyl chloride, nickel chromates, coal products, mustard gas, and chloromethyl ethers are all carcinogens and can be found in some work environments. Talk to your employer about limiting exposure.
5. Keep away from secondhand smoke.
Secondhand smoke is the smoke exhaled from a smoker or smoke from a lit cigarette, pipe, or cigar. This smoke contains over 60 known carcinogens (agents causing cancer). These carcinogens interrupt normal cell development. This interference of cell development is what starts the cancer process.
6. Be Careful And Aware At Home.
Lung
cancer prevention is important at home as well. Chemicals that
contribute to lung cancer are found not only at the workplace, but may
be under your sink or in your garage. Carefully read labels on household
products and follow the instructions for safe usage. Wood smoke from
wood burning stoves and fireplaces may also increase the risk of
developing lung cancer.
7. Exercise for lung cancer prevention.
Even
moderate amounts of exercise can aid in lung cancer prevention. Studies
suggest that even something as simple as gardening twice a week is
associated with a lower risk of developing lung cancer.
http://lungcancer.about.com/b/2008/03/04/supplemental-vitamins-dont-cut-lung-cancer-risk.htm
8. Enjoy a Cup of Green Tea.
Green
tea has been shown to prevent some of the damage to cells caused by
smoking, and people who consume more green tea appear to have a lower
risk of lung cancer. That said, drinking green tea isn’t a “get out of
jail free” card, and quitting smoking is the most important thing you
can do to lower your risk.
9. Limit Your Intake of Alcohol.
Another
important step in lung cancer prevention may include limiting your
intake of certain types of alcoholic beverages. For men, the heavy
consumption of beer and hard liquor is associated with an elevated risk
of developing lung cancer. In contrast, a moderate intake of wine in men
was linked with a lower risk of developing the disease.
10. Be Wary of Supplements.
Advertisements
would lead us to believe that nutritional supplements are beneficial in
lung cancer prevention, while in fact, studies have actually linked the
use of some supplements to a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Supplements that have raised concern include beta-carotene, retinol, lutein, and vitamin E.
If you are considering taking nutritional supplements, talk with your
doctor or ask her to refer you to someone knowledgeable about the risks
and benefits of supplements for your specific situation.
Videos on the prevention of Lung Cancer.
Sources:
- National Cancer Institute. Lung Cancer Prevention (PDQ). Health Professional Version. Updated 07/16/10.
- Nucleus Medical Media. Lung Cancer Prevention
- About.com. Tips for preventing Lung Cancer
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