Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, but the good news is that many cases can be prevented by making healthy lifestyle choices. In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips to lower your risk and protect your lungs.
1. Quit Smoking—The Most Important Step
Smoking is the top cause of lung cancer, accounting for about 80-90% of cases. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health.
- How to start: Seek support from quit-smoking programs, use nicotine replacement therapy, or consult a doctor for medications that can help.
- Secondhand smoke matters too: Avoid being around people who smoke, as inhaling their smoke can also increase your risk.
- Create smoke-free zones: Encourage smoke-free environments at home and work.
2. Avoid Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Certain chemicals in the air and workplace can increase your lung cancer risk, such as radon gas and asbestos.
- Radon test: Radon is a natural gas that can seep into homes. You can buy a radon test kit to check levels in your home.
- Workplace safety: If you work with chemicals, ensure proper ventilation and always use protective gear.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants that can protect your lungs from damage. Aim to include a variety of colourful produce in your meals.
- Foods to focus on: Broccoli, spinach, carrots, and citrus fruits are particularly good for lung health.
- Avoid supplements: High doses of beta-carotene supplements have been linked to a higher risk of lung cancer in smokers.
4. Exercise Regularly
Staying active boosts your immune system and helps keep your lungs healthy.
- How much exercise? Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, like walking or cycling, five days a week.
- Start small: If you’re new to exercise, begin with short walks and gradually increase your activity level.
5. Protect Yourself From Air Pollution
Air pollution can damage your lungs over time and increase your cancer risk.
- Indoor air quality: Use air purifiers and avoid burning wood or coal indoors.
- Outdoor air quality: Limit outdoor activities on days when pollution levels are high, especially if you live in a busy city.
6. Get Regular Health Checkups
Early detection can save lives. If you’re at high risk for lung cancer, talk to your doctor about screening tests, such as a low-dose CT scan.
7. Stay Informed and Spread Awareness
Understanding your risks and sharing knowledge with others can help prevent lung cancer. Encourage friends and family to adopt healthy habits, and join community efforts to promote lung health.
Preventing lung cancer starts with protecting your lungs. Whether it’s quitting smoking, improving your diet, or being mindful of environmental risks, small changes can make a big difference. Remember, it’s never too late to make healthier choices.
Take charge of your health today—because every breath is precious.
Dr. Arvind Kumar is an eminent Medical Oncologist and has been trained at AIIMS, New Delhi. He has done DM in Medical Oncology from AIIMS Delhi and he is the first DM in Medical Oncology in Bihar who has returned to his native state after getting a DM degree.
