Among the most common cancers in the world, lung cancer is one of them. People who smoke have a greater risk of lung cancer but it is important to know that it can occur to people who have never smoked as well. 

 

With smoking being the strongest causative risk factor for this disease, the risk of it increases with the length of time and the number of cigarettes you have smoked. In fact, non-smokers are equally at risk and there can be several reasons for this. 

 

 

• Smoking and Passive smoking

The risk of lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes you smoke every day and the time period you continue smoking. Quitting to smoke at any age can also lower the risk of developing cancer. Passive smoking; the exposure of non-smokers to indirect smoke, hookah, cigars is the most common cause 

 

• Exposure to radon gas 

Radon is a radioactive gas that is released by the natural breakdown of uranium and rock. It  can seep into the water through cracks in the walls and floors that eventually become part of the air you breathe

 

• Avoid exposure to other hazardous substances

Exposure to certain chemicals like asbestos, nickel, soot, cadmium, arsenic, chromium, etc. increases your risk of lung cancer. Workplaces are where you are most exposed to these chemicals. Limit your exposure by wearing protective gear

 

• Genetic predisposition

Certain specific gene mutations may predispose future generations of the family, and siblings posing a threat of developing lung cancer 

 

There is no surefire way to avoid the risk but one can try making these lifestyle changes. 

 

• Stop smoking

As obvious as it seems, quitting smoking at any given time reduces the risk and remains the single best way to prevent lung cancer. Toxic substances like arsenic, benzene, and formaldehyde increase the risk of respiratory diseases

 

• Healthy diet consumption

Making healthy food choices cannot totally avoid the risk of cancer but can surely reduce the risk. Base your diet in a way that is a wholesome combination of fruits, veggies, nuts, whole grains, and beans.  Eat light by choosing less high-calorie foods to maintain a healthy weight.

 

• Limit the alcohol intake 

The risk of several types of cancers for the lung, breast, kidney, liver, colon, etc. increases with an excess amount of alcohol intake

 

• Be physically active

Healthy weight management may reduce the risk of several types of cancer of the lung, breast, kidney, liver, and colon. Brisk walking, aerobics, cycling, etc. are great options to get your body moving. Practice breathing exercises to increase your lung capacity helping in better lung function

 

Take the road to a healthy life with these lifestyle changes as they can go a long way in overall well-being. Dharana Wellness Centre, a wellness retreat at Shillim, focuses on holistic health which includes physical, mental, and spiritual balance. Dharana combines the use of an integrative, modern approach for holistic health with traditional practices like Yoga, Naturopathy, and Ayurveda to ensure a sustainable wellness journey.