Sitting idle? These lifestyle habits may increase risk of cancer

Although the main cause of cancer is not known, evidence shows that our lifestyle can increase the risk of many types of cancer. About 90 percent of cancers in adults are related to environmental abnormalities and lifestyle. These include smoking, drinking alcohol, physical inactivity, obesity, stress, and eating unhealthy food.

The risk of cancer has also increased in recent years due to environmental pollution. Epstein Barr virus (EBV), human papillomavirus (HPV), Hepatitis B and C, and HIV infection also increase the risk of cancer.

Here’s how your diet and lifestyle may become a cause of cancer:

1. Stomach and colon cancer

Stomach and colon cancers can also be lifestyl-related cancers. Their risk is especially increased by smoking and excessive consumption of processed foods. Excess salt consumption can also increases risk. Similarly, a red meat-rich diet or low fibre diet increase the risk of colon cancer.

2. Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Obesity, stress, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity are among the major risk factors.

3. Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women. HPV infection is one of the main reasons for this. A vaccine to prevent its infection is also available for girls between the ages of 9 to 26 years. Lack of intimate hygiene is also a risk factor for this type of cancer.

4. Lung cancer

Smoking and alcohol consumption are major causes of lung cancer. Data shows that about 90 percent of lung cancer cases are related to tobacco consumption. Many types of pollutants can also cause lung cancer.

5. Oral cavity cancer

Consumption of tobacco products is the biggest risk factor of oral cavity cancer. Apart from this, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, obesity or nutritional deficiencies in the diet can also increase the risk of this type of cancer. These are also risk factors for other head and neck related cancers.