Cancer develops when cells in the body grow and divide uncontrollably, often spreading to surrounding tissues. Cancer can affect nearly every organ system and is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. While not all cancer risks can be eliminated, understanding the main causes can empower you to make informed lifestyle choices, pursue preventive screenings, and take early action to lower your risk.
This overview highlights 10 of the most common factors linked to cancer and how you can respond proactively.
1. Tobacco Use
Tobacco remains the leading preventable cause of cancer. According to the CDC, cigarette smoking causes nearly 90% of lung cancer deaths in the United States. In addition, it is strongly linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, kidney, and bladder. Even smokeless tobacco products contain carcinogens.
Quitting tobacco at any age reduces risk. Plus, avoiding secondhand smoke protects you and those around you.
2. Poor Diet and Nutrition
A diet that is high in processed meats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars—but low in fiber, fruits, and vegetables—can contribute to cancer risk. These dietary patterns promote inflammation, obesity, and oxidative stress, which increase the likelihood of certain cancers such as colorectal, stomach, and breast cancer.
On the other hand, diets rich in antioxidants, fiber, and anti-inflammatory foods are associated with lower cancer risk. These foods include fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
3. Physical Inactivity
Sedentary lifestyles are linked to higher rates of colon, breast, and endometrial cancers. Lack of activity can lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and hormonal changes that drive cancer development.
Even moderate exercise strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. For example, brisk walking for 30 minutes most days of the week is great for boosting physical and mental health.
4. Obesity
Excess body fat contributes to hormonal imbalances, chronic low-grade inflammation, and insulin resistance—all factors that can promote cancer. Obesity is particularly linked to cancers of the breast (postmenopausal), endometrium, kidney, pancreas, and colon.
Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular activity is one of the most effective cancer-prevention strategies.
5. Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is a known carcinogen, and its effects are dose-dependent. That means the more you drink over time, the higher the risk. Excessive consumption is associated with cancers of the breast, esophagus, liver, and colorectum.
Limiting alcohol to moderate levels—or avoiding it altogether—significantly lowers your risk.
6. Infections
Certain viruses and bacteria increase cancer risk:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): Linked to cervical, throat, and anal cancers. Vaccination provides effective prevention.
- Hepatitis B and C: Associated with liver cancer. Vaccines (for hepatitis B) and antiviral therapies reduce risk.
- Helicobacter pylori: A bacterial infection tied to stomach cancer. Treating H. pylori lowers the likelihood of complications.
Awareness and preventive care (like routine vaccinations) are crucial in lowering infection-related cancer risks.
7. Environmental and Occupational Exposures
Exposure to environmental carcinogens—such as asbestos, benzene, formaldehyde, pesticides, and radon—raises cancer risk. Air pollution and secondhand smoke also play a role.
Advocacy for safer workplaces, environmental protections, and personal safety measures (like radon testing in homes) are important steps in reducing exposure.
8. Radiation Exposure
- Ultraviolet (UV) radiation: From sunlight or tanning beds, UV rays damage DNA and are the leading cause of skin cancer. Sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds are essential defenses.
- Ionizing radiation: Medical imaging like X-rays and CT scans exposes patients to small doses of radiation. While these tests are vital for diagnosis, providers carefully weigh risks and benefits to keep exposure minimal.
9. Genetic Factors and Family History
Inherited mutations can significantly increase cancer risk. Well-known examples include:
- BRCA1 and BRCA2: Raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
- Lynch syndrome: Associated with colon, endometrial, and ovarian cancers.
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP): Greatly increases risk of colorectal cancer.
If you have a family history of cancer, genetic counseling and earlier or more frequent screenings may be recommended.
10. Age and Hormonal Factors
Cancer risk increases with age, as genetic mutations accumulate over time. More than half of all cancers are diagnosed in people older than 65.
Hormonal factors also play a role. For example, estrogen exposure increases breast cancer risk, while testosterone can influence prostate cancer development.
As we grow older, regular screenings become even more important, allowing early detection when treatment is most effective.
Lowering Your Risks of Cancer: The Bottom Line
While cancer cannot always be prevented, many risk factors can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices, vaccination, and proactive screenings. Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Contact South Carolina Oncology Associates to schedule your recommended cancer screenings or speak with a provider about steps you can take to lower your risk. We’re here to help keep you as healthy as possible.
Sources:
What Is Cancer? Symptoms, Causes & Types
