8 Ways To Help Prevent Cancer

Here’s what science tells us really lowers our risk of the disease

- Tanya Pearey

1 Stay active

Experts reckon that upping activity levels could prevent 3,400 cancers a year, including two of the most common – breast and bowel. Exercise affects your body’s hormone and chemical levels, which can cause or protect against cancer, as well as helping you maintain a healthy weight, which can lower your cancer risk. Aim for half an hour of moderate exercise (which leaves you slightly breathless) at least five times a week. You don’t need to become an athlete – just 30 minutes’ gardening or housework, or a brisk walk will do the trick.

2 Keep an eye on your weight

Being overweight or obese is the UK’s biggest cause of cancer after smoking. Cancer Research UK estimates that it’s responsible for around one in 20 of all UK cancer diagnoses. It causes 13 different types, including some of the most common, such as breast and bowel. Extra body fat is thought to cause cancer by affecting growth and sex hormones, and causing inflammation, which can trigger cells to divide more often. The more overweight you are, the higher your risk, so try to keep your BMI (body mass index) close to the healthy range (18.5–24.9). The best way to lose weight is on a calorie-controlled healthy eating plan, with a realistic weight-loss goal – around 6lb a month.

3 Be sun savvy