One of the many unfortunate characteristics of cancer is that it can be unpredictable, which means that no matter how vigilant and healthy a person is, prevention isn't always possible. However, medical professionals do agree that your lifestyle choices can either predispose or prevent cancer, depending on what those habits are. Here are some changes to make to safeguard your body, helping to ensure that your visit to an oncologist ends with a clean bill of health. 

What Are Some Lifestyle Habits for Preventing Cancer?

1. Curb Your Drinking 

While it's fun to celebrate a birthday, wedding, or other special occasion, drinking should be done in moderation. Drinking excessively or often can lead to kidney, liver, breast, colon, and other types of cancer. 

Your oncologist will recommend limiting your alcohol intake. If you have an autoimmune disease or a history of these types of cancer in your family, it might be best to cut drinking out altogether. 

2. Eat Well and Exercise 

Exercising for just twenty minutes a day can strengthen the systems and organs within your body, including the heart, lungs, and colon. Eating a healthy diet is always recommended since an unbalanced or junk-filled diet can predispose you to cancer.

3. Don't Smoke

According to the CDC, tobacco is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States, mostly because it leads to cancer of the lungs, mouth, throat, and other organs or systems. Cigarettes aren't the only issue, though. 

Chewing tobacco and vapes are also cancer-causing. If you're having trouble quitting, your oncologist or general practitioner will have recommendations on the best methods to help. 

If you or a loved one is due for a cancer screening or is in need of care, contact Tennessee Plateau Oncology – Dirk Davidson M.D. in Crossville, TN. Our oncologists and Physician Assistants have over 35 years of combined experience in testing and treating various cancers. They have been serving residents throughout the Cumberland Plateau since 2002. Visit the website to learn more about their services, and call (931) 484-7596 to schedule an appointment.