Understanding Risk
We recommend general guidelines for a healthy lifestyle as endorsed by the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute, as these may also help reduce your risk for developing cancer.
Risk Reduction
Exercise
Many studies have shown the importance of physical activity for overall health, maintaining weight, and lowering the risk of many types of cancer and other conditions. Most experts recommend getting at least three to five hours of exercise per week, but any steps towards increasing activity level will provide some benefit. Aerobic exercise involves raising the heart rate; examples include brisk walking, climbing stairs, jogging, swimming, and taking an exercise class. Before beginning a new exercise program, it is a good idea to talk with your doctor.
Smoking
Stop smoking. It is never too late. For smokers, kicking the habit is one of the single most important steps to reducing the risk of cancer and other serious diseases. Quitting smoking can be a challenge, and having support is a key to success. We can provide information about smoking cessation programs that should be available in your area. Your doctor can give you guidance; we also recommend the QuitWorks program offered by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Alcohol
The American Cancer Society recommends limiting alcohol intake to fewer than four servings per week. A serving is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1 1/2 ounces of spirits.
Sun Protection
Wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen provide protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Some forms of skin cancer are very common, but protecting yourself from the sun will reduce the risk of even the most serious types. Other risk-reducing steps include avoiding the sun during the midday peak exposure hours (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.) and wearing sunglasses and a hat. Tanning booths are not safe for anyone.
Diet
One of the most important factors in maintaining overall health is to eat a nutritious, heart-healthy diet. This means consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein — and limiting processed foods, saturated fats, and sugar. Saturated fats are found in meats, full-fat dairy products, and many processed foods. Following a heart-healthy diet will also help you maintain a healthy weight, lowering the risk of several cancers. Be sure to talk with your doctor about any specific dietary concerns or questions you may have. We recommend Dana-Farber's Nutrition Services web section as a great place to start for ideas and recipes.
Healthy Lifestyle Tips to Lower Your Cancer Risk
Download this brochure to learn about ways to lower your cancer risk, developed by the Cancer Genetics and Prevention team.
Cancer Prevention and Risk Reduction
Dana-Farber offers a wealth of supportive services and programs to help individuals reduce their risk of a cancer occurrence or recurrence.
Exercise as a Cancer Prevention Agent: Implications for Lynch Syndrome
Christina Dieli-Conwright, PhD, MPH, discusses recent data regarding cancer prevention in Lynch syndrome in addition to exercise recommendations.
Screening Procedures
Screening procedures that we would be happy to assist in scheduling at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or Brigham and Women's Hospital include:
- Colonoscopy: A test that allows the clinician to see the large intestine
- Endoscopy: A type of screening that uses a lighted instrument (endoscope) to examine the interior of hollow areas or organs within the body
- Endoscopic ultrasound: A combination of ultrasound and endoscopy that allows the collection of images about the digestive tract
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP): A test that uses a lighted scope (endoscope) to examine the tubes that drain the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas
- Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast
- Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP): A technique that uses magnetic resonance imaging to see biliary and pancreatic ducts
- MRI / breast MRI: A technique used to see internal structures of the body in detail. This type of imaging provides contrast and enables detailed images of the body
- Ultrasound / transvaginal ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image in a screen to view internal structures of the body