We’re all well aware of several causes of cancer, such as smoking, a poor diet and excessive alcohol consumption. But what other factors could be putting us at risk without us even realising?
According to specialists at Macmillan Cancer Support, in most cases, there’s no clear explanation as to why one person develops cancer while another doesn’t. It stresses that having one or more risk factors doesn’t necessarily mean you will definitely get cancer.
It highlights that while some risk factors only marginally increase your chances, others, such as smoking, raise it considerably. You can also develop cancer even if you have no known risk factors.
It cautions: “About 4 in 10 cancers (40%) could be prevented. Living a healthier lifestyle can help reduce your risk. But you cannot reduce your risk of cancer completely.”
What are some risk factors of cancer?
The experts at Macmillan note that while giving up smoking, keeping a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and keeping physically active can all help reduce your risk, there are other factors to consider.
Other little-known factors include:
A pre-cancerous condition where cells are found to have abnormal changes that may lead to cancer if left untreated
If you have low immunity, you may be more likely to develop some cancers. These cancers include:
Heading on holiday this summer?
If you’ve got a trip lined up this summer and intend to spend time in the sun, it’s vital to take precautions to keep yourself protected and your cancer risk to a minimum. Getting outdoors is good for you and sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which strengthens bones and may reduce the risk of certain conditions. But excessive sun exposure can damage your skin, so it’s essential to shield it properly.
It notes: “Too much sun can increase your risk of skin cancer. If you have white or pale skin or do not tan easily, you should avoid letting your skin go pink or red in the sun. If you have black or brown skin, the signs of sun damage may not be as obvious, but you should still protect your skin in the sun.”
- Wear clothes made of fabric that does not let sunlight through. Make sure they cover your body, arms and legs.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat that protects your face, ears and neck.
- Wear sunglasses with wide wraparound lenses or wide arms with the CE Mark and British Standard Mark 12312-1:2013 E.
- Stay in the shade when you can, especially between 11am and 3pm.
- Use a suncream with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Choose one that protects against UVA and UVB, with four or five stars.
It cautions: “Using sunbeds or sunlamps also increases your risk of skin cancer. If you want to look tanned, use fake tan lotions or sprays.”
