How to prevent cancer: Help lower your risk of cancer with six simple steps

Cancer is not a single disease. It’s a wide range of conditions, some of which may well be eradicated in future.

Take two examples:

One. We now understand the link between the human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer. A vaccination has been developed.

Likewise, the link between tobacco and lung cancer is well-established and global incidence of the disease will diminish in the years ahead if we can move towards a world that does not smoke.

We all have more influence over our health than we tend to think.

Starting today, take control of your health and help lower your cancer risk with these six simple steps:

One. Incorporate foods with anti-carcinogenic properties into your diet. These can be things like tomatoes, wholegrains, garlic and citrus fruit.

Two. Avoid other types of food or consume them in moderation. Such as processed meat, red meat and alcohol.

Three. Educate yourself about how to recognise early warning signs and the symptoms of different cancers. Talk with your doctor.

Four. Be active every day. Walk, bike, swim or dance — Do what makes you happy. It all counts.

Five. If you haven’t had a health check including bloodwork for 12 months, or if you have any concerns, book a check up with a medical professional today.

Six. Find out about the optimal ages at which to have cancer screenings — for example, breast cancer and cervical cancer.

Take control of your health and well-being today.