Dr. Sanjeev Kumar | Cancer GI Prevention

Cancer GI Prevention: 5 Tips to Help Reduce Your Risk

According to Dr Sanjeev Kumar, who specializes in gastrointestinal and minimally invasive cancer, Prevention is always preferred to treatment when it comes to warding off illness and disease. Following a healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk of cancer and other diseases.

Here are 5 tips you can start practicing today:

1. Follow a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods high in fiber can help keep your digestive system healthy. Limit processed foods, red meats, and added sugars, which have been linked to a higher risk of gastrointestinal cancers.

Limiting your intake of red meats, such as beef, pork, and lambhelps prevent the onset of colorectal cancer.
Maintain a healthy weight for your height and lifestyle. Talk with your healthcare provider about the right weight range for you.
Follow recommended guidelines for physical activity: 150 minutes of moderate activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. Stick to your exercise plan by establishing a support system and setting realistic goals. Talk with your healthcare provider about what types of exercise are best for your individual needs.

2. Do not smoke or use tobacco products.

Smoking harms the lungs and may lead to cancer. People who smoke more cigarettes or smoke for more years have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Smoking and tobacco use can also lead to cancers of the mouth, throat, and larynx. Both alcohol consumption and tobacco use are linked to an increased risk of GI cancers. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation, and seek help to quit smoking if you currently use tobacco.
Quitting smoking helps decrease your risk of cancer. For example, 5-10 years after quitting, the risk of developing mouth, throat, or larynx cancers is cut in half. The risk of developing lung cancer is cut in half 10-15 years after quitting.

3. Take advantage of available cancer screenings.

Getting regular cancer screenings can provide peace of mind if you are cancer-free. Screenings also can detect some cancers in their early stages, when they may be more easily treated. CertainGastrointestinal cancer screenings are available depending on your age, gender, family history, and lifestyle habits, such as tobacco use. Stay proactive about your health by attending regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, especially if you have a family history of gastrointestinal cancers or other risk factors. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Talk to your primary care provider to see which cancer screenings you are eligible for and when.

4. Limit exposure to sunlight and radiation.

Exposure to radiation, including sunlight, can lead to the development of different types of Gastrointestinalcancer. Frequent unprotected exposure can lead to skin cancer. When you are in the sunlight for extended periods, use sunscreen and wear a wide-brim hat and a long-sleeve shirt. A less common source of radiation is radon, which can be found in your home and can cause lung cancer. Some everyday sources of radiation such as microwaves and cell phones do not increase the risk of cancer.

5. Abstain from drinking alcohol, or drink it in moderation.

For Gastrointestinal cancer prevention, it’s best not to drink alcohol. Alcohol in any form — beer, wine, or liquor — has been linked to 7 different cancers. People who choose to consume alcohol should limit these beverages to no more than 1 drink per day for a woman and 2 drinks per day for a man.
While healthy lifestyle choices can’t guaranteecancer prevention, they can help lower the risk of getting cancer. Staying informed, such as understanding risk factors, is a key step in cancer awareness and prevention. Here are a few resources to help you learn more about cancer:
Learn about testing for inheritedGastrointestinalcancers. About 5% to 10% of all cancer cases occur in someone who inherited a genetic mutation that increases cancer risk.

In conclusion
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar is a renowned surgical oncologist with over 15 years of experience. He is Associate Director and Unit Head of Surgical Oncology, GI & HPB Oncology, Robotic Cancer Surgeon & HIPEC Specialist in Max Super Speciality Hospital Dwarka. Dr. Kumar is committed to providing exceptional patient care and advancing cancer treatment options.