Top Ten Healthy Lifestyle Tips From 2007

We have listed ten practical tips for nutrition and environmental awareness from 2007research. Now, we continue our countdown with ten tips gleened from 2007 studies on lifestyle and cancer risk.

10. Sleep in darkness.
This month, night shift work has been classified as a probable human carcinogen. Studies have found women who work night shifts have an elevated risk of breast cancer (and men, prostate cancer), whereas blind women have a low incidence. It is felt that melatonin, manufactured by the brain in total darkness, may lower the risk.

9. Brush your teeth and see your dentist.
Gum disease raised the risk of developing pancreatic cancer by a factor of three, in a study published this year.

8. Look for alternatives to hormone replacement therapy.
The drop in post-menopausal breast cancer (16%), that hit the headlines, is felt due to fewer women using hormone replacement therapy after menopause. Women who find menopausal symptoms overly uncomfortable, should seek out a health care provider who is passionate about menopause care, and can discuss risks and benefits of the multiple integrative options available.

7. Get Insured.
Those who lack health insurance for whatever reason, are more likely to die from cancer. Hopefully, with health care issues playing a significant role in the 2008 election, options for those who "fall between the cracks" will open.

6. Know your family history.
Studies continue to find genetic predispositions to several types of cancer. Recently, the risk for men in a family with a genetic risk for breast cancer has also been brought forth. In some cases, special screening may be indicated. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a form titled "My Family Health Portrait" for creating a family history. You can also get one by calling 1-888-275-4772.

5. Practice safe sex.
Although we have known for some time that roughly 25 percent of oral cancers are attributed to the human papillomavirus (HPV), the issue has surfaced to general awareness along with the HPV vaccine. The most important step you can take is to practice safe sex, and consult a health care professional if you develop anything suspicious in your mouth.

4. Research before you travel.
Infection as the cause of roughly 25 percent of cancers worldwide is also old news that has recently gained the attention of the media. Before you travel, check out the Center for Disease Control's website . Bird flu is not the only concern in our wonderlust for exotic destinations.

3. Exercise.
For those who can't afford the pricey health club, or don't want to leave home, a study published this year could even save you money without stepping over your threshold. Women who exercised had a reduction in breast cancer, but the group with the greatest reduction in risk were those who engaged in "domestic exercise." Say with me "vacuuming, dusting, washing windows, folding clothes..."

2. Get screened.
2007 has been a year where HPV, and the vaccine, became a common household word. No matter your take on the HPV vaccine, Pap smears can detect abnormalities on the cervix before cancer appears - and save lives.

1. Be lean.
Studies this year have not only called to attention the tremendous impact of overweight and obesity on cancer, but seem to suggest that, even for those of normal weight, leaner is better. Think slim for a plus-size life!

For further information on cancer prevention, buy Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time: Practical Advice for Preventing Cancer.