Preventing cancer: identifying risk factors

According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), approximately 1 in 4 Singaporeans are affected by cancer at some point in their lives. As of now, research has not yet fully understood why some people develop cancer while others do not. 

However, studies have shown that some factors can increase a person's risk of developing cancer. These are known as risk factors.

Cancer risk factors

A risk factor is something that doesn’t always happen. In other words, having one or more risk factors doesn’t necessarily mean that you will definitely develop cancer. Some risk factors only increase your risk by a small amount, while others (such as smoking) may have a big influence on your odds.

Some of the major risk factors of cancer include:

Family history

If your family members have developed certain types of cancer, you may also be more likely to develop them yourself. This is because you may have inherited a gene mutation, which is known as familial or hereditary cancer syndrome.

However, it's important to remember that genetics alone cannot accurately predict cancer. Lifestyle or environmental risk factors also play an important role in determining your odds of developing cancer.

If you have a family history of cancer and are concerned about your chances of developing it, request an appointment with Thomson Medical to consult a healthcare specialist.

Age

While cancer can occur at any age, most cancer types are diagnosed in people aged 50 or older. As we get older, the risk of developing cancer increases, partly because our cells may accumulate more genetic mutations over time. 

Damage to the DNA of cells can result from exposure to various risk factors throughout life, leading to the potential for cancerous growths. This is because the body's monitoring systems, various cellular and immune mechanisms that can detect, repair, or eliminate cells with damaged DNA to prevent cancer, become less efficient with age.

This increased risk necessitates regular screenings and vigilance for symptoms, especially for older adults. Cancer screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and prostate exams are crucial in cancer detection, offering more treatment options and better outcomes when caught early.

Lifestyle choices

Certain habits and behaviours significantly increase the likelihood of developing cancer, making them modifiable risk factors. Some of these include: 

• Smoking:

  • Smoking is one of the most prominent causes of cancer, particularly lung cancer.

• Physical activity: 

  • Regular exercise, such as brisk walking for 30 minutes a day, has been shown to have protective effects against cancer.

• Healthy diet: 

  • Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while minimising your intake of processed foods, red and processed meats, and sugary drinks can significantly reduce your cancer risk.

• Alcohol: 

  • Alcohol consumption is linked to a higher risk of certain cancers, including breast, liver, and colon cancer. Reducing alcohol intake or avoiding it entirely can help lower this risk.

Environmental factors

Exposure to certain environmental elements can significantly elevate the risk of developing cancer. Carcinogens, substances that can cause cancer, are present in many areas of everyday life, often without our direct awareness. Recognising and minimising your exposure to these substances is a crucial step in cancer prevention.

These can include:

• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation:

  • Overexposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds is a leading cause of skin cancers, including melanoma. While spending some time outside is healthy, it is important to take measures such as sunscreen to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

• Pollution:

  • Airborne pollutants, such as particulate matter and secondhand smoke, have been linked to an increased likelihood of lung cancer.

• Industrial chemicals:

  • Certain chemicals such as asbestos and benzene can lead to cancers like mesothelioma and leukaemia, respectively. It’s crucial to implement safety regulations and appropriate protective gear in workplaces to reduce exposure to these harmful substances.

Infections

Certain infections are known to increase the risk of cancer. These infections can lead to chronic inflammation, genetic changes, or the introduction of viral oncogenes, which can contribute to cancer development.

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV):

  • HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer and is also linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, and anus. Vaccination against HPV can significantly reduce the risk of these cancers by preventing the initial infection.

• Hepatitis B and C viruses:

  • Chronic infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are major risk factors for liver cancer. These viruses cause liver inflammation that can lead to cancer over time. Vaccination against HBV and effective treatment strategies for HCV can lower the incidence of liver cancer.

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori):

  • H. pylori is a bacterium that infects the stomach lining and is strongly associated with the development of stomach cancer and certain types of lymphoma. Treating infections with antibiotics can reduce the risk of developing these cancers.

If you have concerns regarding any of the above cancer risk factors, request an appointment with Thomson Medical to consult with a cancer specialist.

FAQ

What is 90% of cancer caused by?

Cancer is largely influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors. Key risk factors include:

• Tobacco use:

  • Tobacco smoking causes preventable cancer deaths, linked to many cancers like lung and throat. Even secondhand smoke (passive smoking) increases the risk of lung cancer.

• Diet and nutrition:

  • Diets high in processed foods and sugars raise cancer risk, while fruit and vegetable-rich diets lower it.

• Physical inactivity:

  • A sedentary lifestyle increases cancer risk, whereas regular activity helps reduce it.

• Obesity:

  • Excess weight is linked to multiple cancers. Maintaining a healthy weight can decrease risk.

• Sun exposure:

  • UV radiation can increase the risk of skin cancer.

• Alcohol consumption:

  • Excessive intake is linked to liver and breast cancers. Limiting alcohol can reduce risk.

• Environmental pollutants:

  • Chemicals like asbestos and radon are carcinogens. Minimising exposure is vital.

• Infections:

  • Infections such as HPV, hepatitis B/C, and H. pylori infections heighten cancer risk.

What is the biggest risk for cancer?

Getting older is the single most significant risk factor for cancer as a whole.

Cancer incidence rates increase markedly with age, starting with fewer than 25 cases per 100,000 individuals under 20 years old, to about 350 per 100,000 in the 45–49 age group, and exceeding 1,000 per 100,000 for those aged 60 and above.

How to avoid cancer risk?

While some risk factors like age and genetics cannot be changed, there are several lifestyle adjustments you can make to lower your cancer risk:

• Quit smoking:

  • If you smoke, stop as soon as possible. Avoiding tobacco smoke not only significantly reduces your cancer risk but also decreases the likelihood of heart disease and lung disease.

• Healthy diet:

  • Prioritise a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of red and processed meats as well as sugary foods and drinks, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

• Regular exercise:

  • Engage in regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week, along with strength training exercises two days a week. 

  • Exercise helps in weight management and has other beneficial long-term effects, such as reducing inflammation and improving immune function.

• Maintain a healthy weight:

  • Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through a combination of diet and exercise can significantly lower your risk of various cancers.

For more advice on how you can reduce cancer risk factors, request an appointment with Thomson Medical's healthcare professionals for tailored advice based on your individual health needs.

What are the warning signs of cancer?

Identifying early warning signs of cancer can lead to an earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment. Although symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and location of the cancer, there are some common warning signs to watch for:

• Unexplained weight loss

• Persistent fatigue

• Pain

• Skin changes

• Changes in bowel or bladder habits

• Lumps or masses

• Unusual bleeding or discharge

• Sores that do not heal

It's crucial to remember that these symptoms do not automatically mean you have cancer. Many of these signs can be attributed to less serious conditions.

Can stress cause cancer?

While stress itself is not directly linked to cancer, it can contribute to behaviours and factors that increase the risk. For example, chronic stress might lead individuals to adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms such as smoking, overeating, or excessive alcohol consumption—all of which are known risk factors for various types of cancer.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.