Which risk factors increase the likelihood of cancer?
December 22, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Marie Hahn
Dear team of the online consultation,
My name is Hanna Kleine and I have an urgent question regarding my health. In recent years, I have heard more and more about various cancer cases in my circle of acquaintances and I am concerned that I too could be affected by this disease one day. Therefore, I would like to learn more about which risk factors can increase the likelihood of cancer.
I am 38 years old, a non-smoker, and exercise regularly. However, there have been some cases of cancer in my family, especially breast and colon cancer. This fact worries me and makes me wonder if I have a higher risk of developing cancer. Additionally, I eat healthily, live in a clean environment, and pay attention to my lifestyle.
Despite my efforts to live a healthy life, I wonder if there are other factors that could increase my likelihood of developing cancer. I would like to learn more about this in order to potentially take preventive measures and protect my health as best as possible.
So my question to you is: What are the risk factors that increase the likelihood of cancer and what measures can I take to minimize my risk of cancer? I would greatly appreciate your expert opinion and recommendations to protect my health in the long term.
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Best regards,
Hanna Kleine
Dear Hanna Kleine,
Thank you for your question regarding the risk factors for cancer and possible preventive measures. It is understandable that you are concerned, especially due to the family history of breast and colon cancer. It is commendable that you are already eating healthily, exercising, and paying attention to your lifestyle, as these are important measures for cancer prevention.
There are various risk factors that can increase the likelihood of cancer. Genetic risk factors include familial predispositions, as in your case. If close relatives, especially parents or siblings, have been diagnosed with cancer, the risk of developing it yourself may be higher. It is important to undergo regular screenings to detect potential risks early.
Additionally, environmental and lifestyle factors can also play a role. For example, smoking is one of the most important avoidable risk factors for cancer. Since you are a non-smoker, you have already taken an important step towards cancer prevention. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can also reduce the risk of cancer.
Other risk factors include UV radiation (skin cancer), certain infections like HPV (cervical cancer) or Helicobacter pylori (stomach cancer), and exposure to certain chemical substances (e.g. asbestos, benzene) in the workplace. It is important to be aware that some risk factors are modifiable, while others are genetically determined or difficult to avoid due to environmental influences.
To minimize your personal risk of cancer, it is advisable to undergo regular screenings, live a healthy lifestyle, and reduce potential risk factors. Also, discuss your family history with your doctor to consider specific screening tests if necessary.
I hope this information helps you and provides more clarity on the risk factors and preventive measures for cancer. If you have any further questions or need additional support, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Marie Hahn
