Unfortunately, cancer is a disease that affects every human being, either directly or indirectly. In 2018, there were 18.1 million newly diagnosed cases of cancer. Thankfully, new technologies and treatments are being developed over the years including stem cell-related procedures. To learn more about stem cell therapies, look no further than the medical experts at ThriveMD. Even though cancer feels like an inevitable outcome, there are many things you can start today to reduce your risk of developing the disease. Here are 5 of those adjustments.

Diet & exercise

Although it sounds cliche, diet and exercise are important in nearly every aspect of personal health. Getting proper nutrition, reducing harmful foods, and regularly exercising are proven to reduce the risks of developing cancer. Be sure to watch what you eat; less processed foods and more organic, fresh options. Create a regular exercise regime to work out 3-4 times a week. Taking care of yourself has many positive health benefits.

Sun protection

Even though the sun may feel good against your skin, that warmth is actually a constant stream of radiation. This radiation can disrupt your cells over time causing different types of skin cancer. To help prevent this, always use sun protection when exposing yourself to the sun for long periods of time. Be sure to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during the midday hours of 11-1 o’clock. Umbrellas and protective clothing are also essential when battling the sun.

No tobacco

Here is a simple fact: tobacco overuse will cause cancer. Smoking and chewing tobacco contain multiple carcinogens that cause these types of cancer:  lung, mouth, throat, larynx, pancreas, bladder, cervix, kidney, and pancreas. There are many ways to stop smoking including nicotine substitutes, coping habits (chewing gum and sunflower seeds), and other strategic methods.

Vaccination

Although there are no vaccines that directly prevent cancer, there are vaccines that prevent diseases that can result in the disease. Also, be sure to practice safe sex and never use a used needle. Certain types of Hepatitis and HIV can drastically weaken the immune system which can result in increased cancer risk. The risk of liver, cervical, colon, and lung cancers can be reduced by following this guide.

Antioxidants & Phytochemicals

What you put into your body has a drastic effect on how it develops. Processed foods have links to certain digestive tract cancers over lengthy periods of time. Inversely, there are certain things you can eat to stimy the growth of certain cancers. Foods full of antioxidants and phytochemicals are proven to have positive effects on the body. Here is a list of some of these foods: broccoli, sweet potatoes, spinach, nuts, fish oil, kale, red peppers, blueberries, and green tea.