Cancer cannot always be prevented, but many cases can be avoided by reducing known risk factors. WHO and IARC estimate that about 37% of new cancer cases worldwide in 2022 were linked to preventable causes.
1. Avoid tobacco — Don’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco, and avoid secondhand smoke.
2. Limit or avoid alcohol — Alcohol increases the risk of several cancers, and less is better for cancer prevention.
3. Maintain a healthy weight — Overweight and obesity are associated with several cancers.
4. Eat a healthy diet — Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes, while limiting highly processed foods and processed meat.
5. Exercise regularly — Regular physical activity helps lower cancer risk and supports a healthy weight.
6. Get recommended vaccines — HPV vaccination can help prevent HPV-related cancers, while hepatitis B vaccination reduces the risk of liver cancer.
7. Protect your skin from excessive UV radiation — Use shade, protective clothing and appropriate sunscreen, and avoid tanning beds.
8. Reduce exposure to carcinogens — Follow safety precautions at work and reduce exposure to air pollution and indoor smoke where possible.
9. Have appropriate cancer screening — Screening for cancers such as cervical and breast cancer can detect certain cancers or precancerous changes early. The appropriate tests depend on your age, sex, risk factors and country.
10. See a healthcare professional about persistent symptoms — Early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes for many cancers.
Important: There is no single food, herb, supplement or “detox” that can guarantee protection from cancer. Prevention is about reducing established risk factors and following recommended screening and vaccination guidance.
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