Cancer: Causes, Warning Signs, and Prevention
Understanding Cancer
Cancer is not a single disease but a group of over 100 different diseases that share a common characteristic: the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. While the effectiveness of natural healing techniques in cancer treatment remains controversial, most experts agree that lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer.
Causes of Cancer
Since cancer encompasses over 200 different diseases, there are potentially many different causes. Some of the most closely associated risk factors include:
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Excessive exposure to the sun
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Certain chemicals found in air and water
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Certain food additives
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Viral infections
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Ionizing radiation
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Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
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Negative emotions (in some cases)
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Aflatoxins in peanuts
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Excessive consumption of dietary fats
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Carcinogens found in meats
Common Warning Signs
Spotting one or more of the symptoms listed below does not necessarily confirm cancer. Many of these symptoms can also indicate less serious disorders. Always consult a knowledgeable physician for evaluation.
Common symptoms include:
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Changes in bladder or bowel patterns
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Chronic cough or hoarseness
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Constant indigestion
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Difficulty swallowing
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Thickening of tissue (especially in the breast)
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Major changes in a mole or wart
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A sore that refuses to heal
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Unusual discharge
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Unusual bleeding
Less common symptoms include:
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Chronic headaches with behavioral or visual changes
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Chronic fatigue
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Persistent low-grade fever
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Unexplained bone pain
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Excessive bruising
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Loss of appetite and unusual weight loss
Manage Your Diet Anywhere
Cancer Prevention: The Basics
To lower the risk of developing cancer, consider the following lifestyle changes:
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Quit smoking
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Avoid alcohol
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Follow a cancer-preventive diet
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Limit exposure to radiation; use protective shields (e.g., for mammograms)
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Minimize sun exposure; use sunscreen
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Follow safety regulations if working with carcinogens
Foods That May Help Prevent Cancer
A carefully planned diet can be a significant step toward reducing cancer risk. Consider these dietary adjustments:
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Increase intake of cruciferous vegetables (e.g., cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli)
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Eat high-carotene foods (e.g., carrots, spinach, cantaloupe, apricots, papaya, peaches, watermelon, squash)
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Include strawberries and tomatoes in your diet
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Consume four tablespoons of pureed asparagus daily
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Eat beans, which contain protease inhibitors that may block cancer
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Reduce dietary fat intake to 20% of total caloric intake by avoiding vegetable oil, margarine, meat, poultry (remove skin), and high-fat dairy products
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Reduce protein intake to 12-18% of total diet
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Avoid refined sugars
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Increase high-fiber foods (e.g., whole grains, beans, fruits, vegetables)
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Boost intake of vitamins A, C, E, B-complex, and selenium
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Consume fresh fruits and vegetables, especially dark green and deep yellow varieties
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Avoid smoked, pickled, and barbecued foods due to carcinogenic content
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Avoid nitrates and nitrites (found in deli meats, bacon, smoked fish) as they may form cancer-causing compounds; if consumed, increase vitamin C intake
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Avoid frying and broiling meats as they produce mutagens; instead, steam, bake, stew, or poach
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Use stainless steel cookware; avoid copper and aluminum
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Drink distilled water; if drinking chlorinated tap water, boil it first and avoid fluoridated water
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Increase dietary fiber from whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables, as fiber-rich diets may play a protective role
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Avoid alcohol, which has been linked to increased risks of rectal, bowel, and breast cancer
Conclusion
While no single factor guarantees cancer prevention, adopting a healthy lifestyle—including dietary changes, avoiding harmful substances, and maintaining regular medical checkups—can significantly reduce the risk. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and regular screenings.
Health Writer
MD Anderson Cancer Center. (2025, February 15). 36 foods that can help lower your cancer risk.
