Simple Facts on Cancer
Articles on the latest cancer research appear in newspapers every day. How do you sort out all the information: the old from the new, and what is best for you? Here are the basic facts about cancer that have been tested by many studies, along with ways to reduce your risk. Scientific research has been very important for us to understand the disease, treatments, and ways to prevent cancer.
Cancer Facts
- Although cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death in the United States, many cancers can be treated.
- The top causes of cancer deaths are lung, breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers.
- Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, but it can be treated and has a high rate of survival.
- People under 55 are unlikely to develop cancer, however, things you do while you are young can have a big impact on your health later in life.
Nature versus Nurture?
Whether someone develops cancer depends on both family history and their environment. Some people's risk for cancer is higher because it runs in their family. Many other things affect your risk for cancer, including your lifestyle and environment.
The biggest risk factors for cancer are:
- smoking
- a high-fat or unhealthy diet
- not getting enough exercise
Some of these risks you can control, like quitting tobacco use and choosing to eat healthy. Other risks, such as age, you cannot control. Things in your environment, such as chemicals, air pollution, and radiation, can also increase your risk.
