Health and cancer

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Health and Cancer: Key Insights from Recent Research

Diet, Nutrition, and Cancer Prevention

Overweight and Obesity

Overweight and obesity significantly increase the risk of several types of cancer, including oesophageal adenocarcinoma, colorectal, postmenopausal breast, endometrial, and kidney cancers. Maintaining a body mass index (BMI) within the range of 18.5-25 kg/m² and avoiding weight gain in adulthood are crucial preventive measures .

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is linked to cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, oesophagus, liver, and a slight increase in breast cancer risk. Limiting alcohol intake to no more than 2 units per day is recommended to mitigate these risks .

Dietary Factors

Certain foods and dietary habits have been identified as either increasing or decreasing cancer risk:

Increased Risk: Aflatoxin in foods (liver cancer), Chinese-style salted fish (nasopharyngeal cancer), preserved and red meats (colorectal cancer), and high salt intake (stomach cancer).
Decreased Risk: Diets rich in fruits and vegetables (at least 400g/day) are associated with a reduced risk of cancers of the oral cavity, oesophagus, stomach, and colorectum .

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity reduces the risk of colorectal cancer and likely reduces the risk of breast cancer. Conversely, sedentary behavior is independently associated with an increased risk of over ten types of cancer, including colorectal and breast cancers .

Quality of Life and Cancer

Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL)

Cancer significantly impacts patients' quality of life, affecting physical, psychological, and social dimensions. Factors such as average monthly income, cancer stage, physical functioning, and social functioning are significant determinants of HRQoL among cancer patients .

Psychological and Social Impact

Cancer patients often face psychological distress, loneliness, and poorer mental health, particularly if they are unmarried or still undergoing treatment. These challenges are similar across both common and rare cancers .

Health Behaviors During and After Cancer Diagnosis

Impact of Cancer Treatments

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy can lead to decreased immune function, cardiotoxic effects, and weight gain. Stress from a cancer diagnosis can disrupt healthy behaviors, leading to continued smoking, alcohol use, decreased physical activity, and poor nutrition, which can complicate treatment and increase the risk of secondary health problems.

Importance of Healthy Behaviors

Adopting healthy behaviors, such as a balanced diet, reduced tobacco and alcohol use, and increased physical activity, is crucial for cancer patients and survivors to improve their overall health and reduce the risk of further malignancies.

Global and Societal Impact of Cancer

Cancer Control in Developing Countries

Cancer poses a significant threat to global health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where access to cancer control and treatment is limited. There is an urgent need for improved health services, capacity building, and international collaboration to ensure health equity and achieve sustainable development goals .

Economic and Social Burden

Cancer affects not only patients but also their families, friends, and society at large. It influences world commerce, healthcare systems, and public policies. The economic burden of cancer is substantial, with high costs associated with treatment and care, leading to financial strain on healthcare systems and patients.

Conclusion

The research highlights the multifaceted impact of cancer on health and society. Preventive measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and adopting a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, are crucial. Additionally, addressing the psychological and social challenges faced by cancer patients and improving cancer control in LMICs are essential for reducing the global burden of cancer.