Anti-Cancer Life Enhancer

Table of Contents

• Reducing Cancer Risks: A Guide for Everyone

  • Key Risk Factors for Cancer

  • Practical Steps to Reduce Your Cancer Risk

• Practical Steps to Reduce Your Cancer Risk

  • Overview of Study Participants

  • Demographic and Data Collection

  • Data Sources:

• Statistical Analysis

• The Rabbit Hole of Research

• Findings

• Conclusion

• The Rabbit Hole of Research

Recently, numerous news reports have raised alarms about the increasing prevalence of early-onset cancers, which are cancers diagnosed in individuals under the age of 50. This growing concern is supported by various studies and statistical analyses indicating a disturbing trend of rising cancer rates among younger populations.

One key factor contributing to this trend is lifestyle changes over the past few decades. Increased consumption of processed foods, higher rates of obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and greater exposure to environmental pollutants have all been linked to higher cancer risks.

In my recent readings, I learned that approximately 660,000 (42% of all) incident cancer cases and 265,000 (45% of all) cancer deaths in the United States in 2014 were attributable to “potentially modifiable risk factors.”

The landscape of cancer risk factors is continually evolving. Since then, new information has emerged, particularly regarding physical inactivity and potentially carcinogenic infections.

Recognizing the need to communicate this data to laypeople like myself, I delved into a recent 2024 study that utilizes nationally representative data on cancer incidence, mortality, and risk factor prevalence to provide contemporary estimates from 2019. The study focused on adults aged 30 and older and considered 30 different cancer types, including lung, colorectal, and breast cancer. The modifiable risk factors assessed included cigarette smoking (both current and former), second-hand smoke, excess body weight, alcohol consumption, consumption of red and processed meat, low intake of fruits and vegetables, dietary fiber, and dietary calcium, physical inactivity, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and STDs.

This research underscores the significant impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on cancer incidence and mortality. More importantly, it highlights the potential for reducing the cancer burden through targeted preventive measures and public health strategies, offering hope for a healthier future.

The primary study:

Reducing Cancer Risks: A Guide for Everyone

A significant number of cancer cases and deaths in the United States were linked to lifestyle choices and other modifiable factors. Researchers from the American Cancer Society and other institutions studied how these factors contributed to cancer to help us understand what changes we can make to lower our risk. Here's a summary of their findings and some practical advice on protecting yourself.

Key Risk Factors for Cancer

1. Still smoking in the 21st century: Smoking is the leading cause of cancer, responsible for 19.3% of all cancer cases and 28.5% of cancer deaths. It affects various body parts, including the lungs, mouth, throat, esophagus, etc. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk.

2. Get away from your vaping friends: Exposure to second-hand smoke also increases the risk of lung cancer, even among non-smokers. Avoiding environments where you might be exposed to tobacco smoke can help.

3. Don’t be fat: Being overweight or obese is linked to several types of cancer, such as those of the esophagus, colorectal, liver, and breast (particularly in postmenopausal women). Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is crucial.

4. Stop drinking: Alcohol increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, and breast. There is no “healthy” amount of alcohol consumption.

5. The role of what we eat:

   • Cheap, conventional red and processed meats: Eating a lot of red and processed meats is linked to colorectal cancer. Limiting these foods can be beneficial.

   • Slow your roll on keto: A diet low in fruits and vegetables can increase the risk of mouth, throat, and esophagus cancers. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

   • I’ll say it one more time: Not enough dietary fiber is also linked to colorectal cancer. Include high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in your diet.

   • You’re an adult, you still need calcium: Adequate calcium intake is essential for reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods can help meet your calcium needs.

6. Your desk is killing you: A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of cancers like those of the colon, breast, and uterus. Regular physical activity is essential for reducing these risks.

7. Don’t go to tanning salons: UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds is a significant cause of skin cancer, including melanoma. Protect your skin by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure.

8. Try to avoid these:

   • Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is linked to cancers of the cervix, anus, and throat. Vaccination and regular screenings can help prevent these cancers.

   • Hepatitis B and C Viruses (HBV and HCV): These viruses increase the risk of liver cancer. Vaccination for HBV and medical treatment for HCV can reduce these risks.

   • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): This bacterium is linked to stomach cancer. Treatment of H. pylori infections can lower the risk.

   • Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): EBV is associated with certain types of lymphomas. While there is no vaccine, managing infections and reducing risk factors can help.

   • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): HIV increases the risk of several cancers. Managing HIV with antiretroviral therapy can reduce these risks.

Here, I made this cheat sheet for you:

Practical Steps to Reduce Your Cancer Risk

• Quit smoking cigarettes or vaping: Seek support and resources to help you stop smoking. There are many programs and medications available to assist you.

• Avoid your friends’ sweet-smelling vape smoke: Make your home and car smoke-free zones, and avoid places where people smoke.

• Get rid of as much fat as possible: Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly to keep your weight in check.

• Stop drinking: Stick to recommended guidelines—no more than one drink a day for women and two for men.

• Eat a whole foods diet: Focus on plant-based foods, limit red and processed meats, and ensure you get enough fiber and calcium.

• This suggestion is not nearly enough: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week.

• Balance your exposure to the sun: Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds.

• Get the appropriate vaccinations: Vaccines for HPV and HBV can protect you from these cancer-causing infections.

• See your doctor: Regular screenings and check-ups can help detect cancers early when they are most treatable.

• Manage those infections properly: Follow medical advice for treating infections like H. pylori and HCV, and use preventive measures for others.

Overview of Study Participants

The study participants were adults aged 30 years and older residing in the United States. This age group was chosen because cancer incidence and the influence of risk factors on cancer are, currently, more pronounced in this population. As adults in this age group are more likely to be affected by cancer, the study's findings are particularly relevant to them. The analysis included a wide range of demographic groups, reflecting the diverse population of the United States. Data on cancer cases and deaths were obtained from national cancer registries, while information on risk factor prevalence was gathered from nationally representative surveys.

Demographic and Data Collection

1. Age Groups: The study focused on adults aged 30 years and older, divided into several age brackets: 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, and so on, up to 85 years and older. This stratification allowed the researchers to assess the impact of risk factors across different stages of adulthood.

2. Geographic Coverage: Data were collected across the United States, ensuring comprehensive national coverage. This approach ensured that the findings represented the entire U.S. adult population aged 30 years and older.

Data Sources:

• Cancer Incidence and Mortality: Data were obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) National Program of Cancer Registries and the National Cancer Institute's (NCI's) Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program.

• Risk Factor Prevalence: Estimates were derived from nationally representative surveys, including the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Statistical Analysis

The researchers applied a simulation method to account for uncertainties in the data. This method generated repeated draws for relative risks (RRs) and risk factor prevalence for each sex and age group stratum. The population-attributable fraction (PAF), which indicates the proportion of cancer cases attributable to a specific risk factor, was calculated for each risk factor and associated cancer type. The results were then summed across age groups to estimate the total number of cases and deaths attributable to each risk factor.

The Rabbit Hole of Research

1. Proportion and number of cancer cases and deaths attributable to potentially modifiable risk factors in the United States, 2019. https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.3322/caac.21858

2. Lung Cancer in Singapore - Interventional Pulmonology Clinic. https://iplungclinic.com/condition/lung-cancer

3. Leading Cause of Lung Cancer in Utah - Radon Be Gone. https://www.radonbegone.com/leading-cause-of-lung-cancer-in-utah/

4. These 5 Lifestyle Choices Increase Your Cancer Risk | Healthy Wellbeing. https://healthywellbeing.com/these-5-lifestyle-choices-increase-your-cancer-risk/

5. Demystifying Heart Attacks in Women: Recognizing the Signs, Risks, and Prevention. https://www.ichhori.com/2023/09/demystifying-heart-attacks-in-women.html

6. Rosenberg, G., Bauld, L., Hooper, L., Buykx, P., Holmes, J., & Vohra, J. (2017). New national alcohol guidelines in the UK: Public awareness, understanding and behavioural intentions. Journal of Public Health. https://doi.org/10.1093/pubmed/fdx126

7. Healthy Eating for a Healthy Heart: A Guide for Ageing Adults. https://blog.fourthfrontier.com/web-stories/healthy-eating-for-a-healthy-heart-a-guide-for-aging-adults/

8. Demystifying Heart Attacks in Women: Recognizing the Signs, Risks, and Prevention. https://www.ichhori.com/2023/09/demystifying-heart-attacks-in-women.html

9. Health Risks Due to Hottest Summer - Archana Hospitals. https://www.archanahospitals.com/health-risks-due-to-hottest-summer/

10. Awan, A., Banack, H., Fisman, D., & Simmons, A. (2023). Hepatitis B and C in individuals with a history of antipsychotic medication use: A population-based evaluation. PLoS One, 18(4), e0284323.

11. Wen-Jung, C., Cheng-Yu, H., Yu-Hui, H., Shao-Chuan, W., Sung-Lang, C., Wen-Wei, S., & Lee, T. H. (2020). Correlations between Mortality-to-Incidence Ratios and Health Care Disparities in Testicular Cancer. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(1), 130.

12. Delete Cancer Risk Calculator - AppContacter Guides 2024. https://appcontacter.com/delete/be.tdf_it.cancerrisk/cancer-risk-calculator

13. Yu-Zu, W., Yu-Zu, W., Hsieh, J. G., & Shinn-Zong, L. (2022). Physical Inactivity and Possible Sarcopenia in Rural Community Daycare Stations of Taiwan: A Cross-Sectional Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(4), 2182.

14. How Much Does Drinking Alcohol Contribute to US Cancer Burden? | Nutrition Fit - Nutritionfit. https://www.nutritionfit.org/how-much-does-drinking-alcohol-contribute-to-us-cancer-burden-nutrition-fit/

15. Red Flag Signs and Symptoms for Patients With Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2819248

Findings

The study found that a significant portion of cancer cases and deaths in 2019 were attributable to modifiable risk factors:

• Overall Impact: Approximately 40% of all cancer cases and nearly 44% of cancer deaths in adults aged 30 years and older were linked to the evaluated risk factors.

• Leading Risk Factors: Cigarette smoking was the most significant contributor, responsible for 19.3% of cancer cases and 28.5% of cancer deaths. Other notable factors included excess body weight, alcohol consumption, and dietary factors.

• Cancer Types: Lung cancer had the highest number of cases and deaths attributable to modifiable risk factors, followed by colorectal cancer, breast cancer (in women), and liver cancer.

Conclusion

This summary was based on a comprehensive study published by the American Cancer Society. The study analyzed data from 2019 and identified the proportion of cancer cases and deaths attributable to various modifiable risk factors. This study underscored the substantial impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on cancer risk. Addressing these modifiable risk factors can significantly reduce the cancer burden in the United States. The findings highlight the importance of public health initiatives focused on smoking cessation, healthy diet, physical activity, and infection prevention.

Understanding these risk factors and modifying your lifestyle can significantly reduce cancer risk. Small changes can make a big difference in your overall health.