An estimated 42,000 people in Ireland get cancer each year, according to The Irish Cancer Society. As we approach World Health Day on April 7th, Dr. Doireann O’Leary has shared some valuable insights into preventing cancer, exploring various factors that can help us to manage our risk.
“When it comes to cancer risk reduction, there are some things that we cannot control – called ‘non-modifiable risk factors’. This includes a family history of hereditary cancer, for example” explains Dr. Doireann. “However, discussing family history with your GP is crucial. Those with a family history of breast or colorectal cancer may require earlier cancer screening.”
Fortunately, there are “modifiable risk factors” too – i.e. day-to-day lifestyle choices that we can proactively make to help lower the risk of getting cancer.
So what steps are recommended to reduce our chances?
- Quit Smoking.
“It comes as no surprise that this is the most important one. Smoking increases risk of the following cancers: sino-nasal, nasopharynx, pharynx, oral cavity, larynx, oesophagus, lung, pancreas, ovary, cervix, leukaemia, kidney, bowel, stomach, liver.”“The NCRI (National Cancer Research Institute) report shows that about 29% of the population are smokers. If the percentage of smokers in Ireland were reduced to 5% of the population, it is estimated that there would be over 1,000 fewer cancer cases a year by 2035 as a result. Visit your GP, practice nurse or Quit.ie for support in quitting. Remember that passive smoking increases your risk of lung cancer, too.”
- Reduce Alcohol Consumption.
Again, no surprises there. “Alcohol increases the risk of cancer. 86% of the adult population are alcohol consumers. 45% of men and 23% of women are moderate alcohol consumers, while 5% of men and 0.5% of women are heavy alcohol consumers.In the 10-year period ending in 2035, it is estimated that 7,741 cancer cases will be attributable to alcohol intake if rates remain unchanged. Try to cut back if you can, and maybe opt for meeting friends for a walk and a coffee instead of a drink or try non-alcoholic drinks on a night out.”
- Avoid sun beds, and practice being sun safe.
“There is a 92% increased risk of melanoma of the skin associated with ever having been sunburned. There is a 20% increased risk of melanoma associated with ever having used a sunbed. This is because excessive exposure to solar radiation can induce DNA damage in the skin. Over time, skin cancer may develop due to a build-up of this damage that causes the cells to start growing out of control.Use self-tan if you like a glow, or simply embrace your natural skin tone!”
- Get some Exercise!
This will reduce your cancer risk. The best exercise to do is the one you enjoy, so that you’ll do it consistently. Physical activity reduces risk of colon and breast cancer, in particular. - Reduce processed meat intake.
The link between meat intake and cancer has been widely covered in the media in recent times, with processed meat being categorised as being group 1 carcinogens by IARC (International Agency for Cancer Research). This means it’s in the same risk category as smoking and alcohol intake.Processed meats such as ham, salami, bacon and some sausages (such as frankfurters and chorizo) increases your risk of colorectal cancer, whilst red meat has been deemed a ‘probable’ cause of cancer.
You don’t have to adhere to a vegan or vegetarian diet to reduce your risk. Maybe try some meat free days each week to cut back”
- Discuss the HPV vaccine with your doctor.
“Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes cervical, penile, anal, vulval and rectal cancers as well as cancers of the head and neck. The HPV vaccine reduces the risk of these cancers. Discuss your suitability for the vaccine with your healthcare provider. Remember also to make sure your cervical screening tests are up to date. You can check when your test is due at www.cervicalcheck.ie.” - Don’t be fearful of hormonal contraception and/or HRT.
“HRT is associated with a small but measurable increased risk of cancer of the breast and of the womb. However, HRT is a critical lifeline for many woman. It actually reduces the risk of colorectal cancer” says Dr. Doireann. “And interestingly, the risk of breast cancer can be offset by getting about 150 mins of moderate intensity exercise a week.”
When it comes to oral contraception: the combined oral contraceptive pill, patch or ring (with oestrogen and progesterone) is associated with an increased risk of breast and cervical cancer in current users – but, conversely – it’s associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer. “So overall, it has a net effect on cancer risk.”
Follow Dr. Doireann:
Dr Doireann O’Leary, MB BCh BAO MICGP, is a GP in Cork City. She graduated with an honours degree in Medicine from University College Cork in 2011 and is passionate about women’s health and general practice. Dr. Doireann is a LARC (long-acting reversible contraception) provider and registered cervical smear taker. She is also a lecturer at the University College Cork School of Medicine.
Dr. Doireann contributes regularly to the media with regular slots on The Last Word on Today FM and The Today Show on RTÉ One. She loves to share her passion for health and wellbeing through her social media channels and her informative podcast, Dr Doireann’s Podcast, where she discusses health, wellbeing, and lifestyle with other healthcare professionals, delving deep into specific areas to share important messages on health.