10 Everyday Activities Causing Cancer
Knowingly or unknowingly everyday we are exposed to many things which are really harmful and hazardous increasing the risk of cancer. Today cancer is the second leading cause of deaths after heart disease. So knowing the risk factors and working to protect yourself just makes sense.
1. Sun Exposure
People who are mainly exposed to sun rays especially between 10 AM to 2 PM which is said to be peak UV radiation hours is more likely to face skin cancer because the UV rays damage the fibers inside our skin. It’s never too late to protect yourself from further damage from sunlight and help prevent skin cancer, though! Make sure that you’re wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, avoid as much sun exposure
2. Drinking Tap Water
It’s long been understood that unfiltered tap water can be dangerous to your health. Especially in rural areas of India, people prefer tap water for drinking as they cannot afford filtered water. Tap water usually contains Chromium-6, disinfection byproducts, among other harmful substances. The best option is to invest in your own water filter, whether through a pitcher or by installing a secondary filtration system in your home. You should also regularly check to see what chemicals may be found in your tap water.
3. Consumption of Alchohol
There’s much research to suggest that regular consumption of alcohol in heavy doses can account for an increased risk of cancer in both men and women. Alcohol consumption has been shown to increase the development of several types of cancer, including breast cancer, liver cancer, and esophageal cancer.
However, cutting your alcohol consumption can positively impact your life in multiple ways!
4. Smoking
Today smoking has become a fashion for youth and is very prevalent. There are 4,800 toxic substances found in cigarettes, and you inhale every single one of them every time you light up. If you smoke, your life expectancy is at least ten years shorter than non-smokers, and your risk of heart attack, lung disease, and a variety of cancers is increased.
The good news: if you stop smoking before age 40, you reduce your risk of dying from a smoking-related disease by almost 90%.
5. Exposure To Air Pollution
It’s no secret that pollution is dangerous. Today air pollution has become very treacherous. Many components of air pollution have already been classified as carcinogens which can increase the risk of lung and bladder cancer. While we can’t just breathe less, we can still take action to protect ourselves and future generations. We can work on increasing the standards of industries, reducing mass transit, etc and ultimately reduce the risk of air pollution.
6. Eating Trans Fats
While trans fats have been banned, they can still turn up in your food. Trans fats are human-made fats that can increase your risk of breast, colon, and prostate cancer. Women with the highest levels of trans fats had double the risk of developing breast cancer as women with the lowest levels. Common foods that may still contain trans fats include snack foods like frozen pizza and microwave popcorn, fast foods
7.Chewing Tobacco
Chewing tobacco which is also known as smokeless tobacco is not less harmful than actual smoking. Some people view chewing tobacco as a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes. If you use any smokeless tobacco, you’re at a higher risk of mouth cancer, stomach cancer, esophageal cancer, and more. You may also be at increased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. So it is very important to quit smokeless tobacco as soon as possible to avoid painful cancers.
8.Having Unprotected Sex
Sex has several health benefits, like reducing stress and boosting your immune system. But, having unprotected sex puts you at risk for contracting STIs like HPV and chlamydia, both of which have been linked to increased cancer risk. The easiest way to prevent exposure to these STIs is, of course, using protection.
9.Having Diabetes
Today diabetes has become one of the most common health issues among all age groups, especially who are above 40. having either type 1 or type 2 diabetes can put you at a higher risk for cancer. Women with diabetes are at a higher risk than men; they’re 27% more likely to develop cancer, while men are only 19% more likely. Maintaining a normal blood sugar level with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can help reduce your risk.
10.Getting Your Clothes Dry Cleaned
When you’re preparing for a special event, you always want to look best and perfect. Many people prefer getting their clothes dry cleaned so as to look stunning. However, most dry cleaning processes use a chemical called “perc,” which is a known health hazard. If you work in a dry cleaner or regularly get your shirts starched and pressed, you may be at higher risk for esophagus, kidney, and bladder cancer. Instead, to make your attire look perfect we can use some home tricks to avoid the risk of getting cancer.
Also Read: Reduce Stress For A Healthy Heart