Even after dealing with cancer, a person needs to be vigilant about prevention because cancer patients are much more likely to get an infection or experience a recurrence of their original cancer or another type of cancer. Thus, they must exercise greater caution. To cope with the side effects of cancer treatment and reduce your risk of cancer recurrence, try putting the experts’ healthy advice into practice.
The following advice can assist individuals in preventing cancer recurrence. –
1. Give up smoking: Smoking after cancer treatment can lower the likelihood of a successful outcome and raise the risk of cancer recurrence. More than 70 carcinogens are found in tobacco smoke, many of which can damage DNA and promote the growth of cancer. Smoking also has the potential to make cancer treatments less effective. One of the best things a person can do for their health after cancer treatment is to stop smoking. This can increase recovery chances and lower the risk of cancer recurrence.
2. Reduce or stop drinking alcohol: Drinking alcohol may increase the likelihood of a cancer recurrence. Studies show that cancer survivors who drink more frequently run a higher risk of passing away and experiencing a relapse. Drinking excessively can weaken the immune system and cause nutritional deficiencies, which can make treating cancer more difficult. It’s best to avoid alcohol entirely or limit consumption if there has been a history of cancer.
3. Lose weight and avoid obesity: It has been conclusively demonstrated that obesity or leading a sedentary lifestyle raises the risk of developing certain cancers and the likelihood that they will return after treatment. Cancer risk can be decreased by maintaining a healthy weight by regular exercise and a balanced diet.
4. Exercise: Regular exercise reduces stress, alleviates fatigue symptoms, and has long-term positive effects on general health. Patients who exercised regularly had a higher ten-year survival rate than those who did not. Since cancer survivors are more likely to develop diabetes or heart problems, regular exercise will lower their risk of developing these conditions. It is advised to exercise moderately for at least 3-5 hours per week, or to do 30 minutes of aerobic activity three days per week and two days of resistance training.
5. Diet: Some cancer outcomes have been linked to dietary consumption. Instead of adopting a plant-based diet (one based on fruits and vegetables), which provides fiber, minerals, and phytochemicals that can prevent cancer, it is advised to stay away from red meat and processed foods. It’s crucial to maintain your diet by staying away from alcoholic beverages and sugary drinks.