Fresh advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment are unfolding daily, yet experts emphasise that proactive lifestyle measures remain vital for reducing personal risk. This week, the UK Government unveiled an ambitious new objective aiming for three-quarters of cancer patients to be either completely cured or managing well with the disease by 2035.
Rising Cancer Rates Among Women
While cancer can affect anyone, recent data reveals a concerning trend: rates are climbing far more rapidly among women than men. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, the number of women in the UK diagnosed with cancer increased by 3.7 per cent between 2019 and 2021. In contrast, figures for men rose by just 0.2 per cent during the same period.
The gap in case numbers between males and females has also narrowed significantly, dropping from approximately 12,900 in 2019 to 6,500 in 2021. This shift highlights the growing impact of cancer on women's health nationwide.
Youth Cancer Cases on the Increase
Cancer rates among younger people are also on the rise. Figures from Cancer Research UK indicate that cases amongst those aged 25 to 49 jumped by 24 per cent between 1995 and 2019. Nevertheless, it is important to note that nine in ten cancer diagnoses still occur in individuals aged 50 and above.
Prostate cancer remains the most prevalent form of cancer in the UK, representing approximately 26 per cent of all diagnoses. For women, breast cancer is the most common, accounting for 30 per cent of female cases.
Five Key Steps to Lower Cancer Risk
In an exclusive interview with the Hindustan Times, renowned gynaecological oncologist Dr Asima Mukhopadhyay outlined five essential steps women should take to lower their cancer risk. These evidence-based recommendations focus on modifiable lifestyle factors that can significantly influence long-term health outcomes.
1: Limit Alcohol, Tobacco, and Caffeine
Dr Mukhopadhyay explains that drinking alcohol and smoking can substantially increase cancer risk. Meanwhile, excessive caffeine consumption can lead to sleep problems and acid reflux, potentially weakening the immune system and indirectly elevating cancer vulnerability. She recommends substituting caffeine with green tea, which provides valuable antioxidants that support cellular health.
2: Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity has been conclusively shown to be a major contributor to various forms of cancer. Dr Mukhopadhyay advises women to engage in between 30 and 45 minutes of physical exercise daily. Suitable activities include yoga, brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, all of which help maintain optimal body weight and metabolic function.
3: Manage Stress Effectively
Addressing stress and ensuring adequate sleep are crucial for supporting hormonal health and lowering cancer risk over the long term. Dr Mukhopadhyay recommends practising mindfulness, meditation, or implementing a digital detox by turning off all electronic devices for designated periods to reduce mental strain.
4: Adopt a Nutrient-Rich Diet
Dr Mukhopadhyay advocates for a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, plant-based foods, beans, and whole grains. She also advises limiting consumption of foods high in fat, calories, and added sugar, as well as reducing intake of red meat, saturated fats, trans fats, and refined grains to support overall health and cancer prevention.
5: Attend Regular Screenings
All women should prioritise attending screening appointments and perform regular self-examinations of their breasts. Dr Mukhopadhyay also stresses that all teenagers should receive the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine, which is routinely offered to children aged 12 and 13 in the UK. Those with a family history of cancer should consult their doctor about available screening tests, as they may face elevated risk at younger ages.
By implementing these five strategic measures, women can take meaningful steps toward reducing their cancer risk and promoting long-term wellbeing. As research continues to evolve, combining medical advances with proactive lifestyle choices offers the most comprehensive approach to cancer prevention.
