Get a move on. Getting at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise (activities like dancing, biking or walking briskly) on five or more days a week can lower your lifetime cancer risk.
Up your antioxidants. Certain foods pack cancer-preventing powers. Blueberries, kiwi, artichokes and green tea all contain high levels of antioxidants that can help prevent cancer. For a delicious, healthy dish tonight, see the recipe on the next page.
Go organic. Choose organic foods whenever possible, to avoid pesticides and hormones that damage healthy cells and could eventually lead to cancer.
Get screened. Early detection means a greater chance of success in beating many cancers. Talk to your doctor about your risks to determine when, and for what diseases, you should be screened.
Quit tobacco. Tobacco use leads to 87% of lung cancer deaths and 30% of all cancer deaths. A study published in a British medical journal showed that stopping smoking at any age reduces disease and death rates. It is never too late to quit.
Be sun smart. Adults and kids alike can reap big health benefits from outdoor activities. But sun exposure increases the risk of skin cancer. To lower your risk apply sunscreen every two hours, avoid midday sun, and shield yourself from cancer-causing UV rays with clothing, a hat and sunglasses.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases the risk of cancer. To achieve and maintain a healthy weight, talk to your doctor about the types of exercise and healthy foods that are right for you.