Tips to Decrease Your Cancer Risk

OVERWEIGHT & CANCER RISK 

Being overweight means your body has more fat compared to other tissue, such as muscle and bone. Too much extra weight raises your risk of certain types of cancer, as well as your risk for cancer coming back after treatment.

Talking about your weight with your doctor is important, but that can be hard for some people. Some people feel ashamed about their weight. Some people have even experienced discrimination because of their weight. It can also feel overwhelming to change your behaviors, like what and how much you eat and how much you exercise. But even small, simple changes can have a big impact on your health.

The following types of cancer have been linked to being overweight or obese:

• Breast cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Head & neck cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Gallbladder cancer
• Colorectal cancer

One of the most important things you can do to decrease your cancer risk is to maintain a healthy weight.

• Stay active. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week.
• Eat mostly vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Eat foods that make you feel full, including healthy fats such as nuts, fish, and olive oil.
• Avoid highly processed foods like packaged foods.
• Avoid sugary drinks. Check the sugar and calories in your coffee and drinks.

Dr. Diwanshu Khatana 

Assistant Consultant, BMCHRC