ICMR Guidelines to Prevent Cancer

Cancer ranks among the most frequent bases of morbidity and fatality all over the world, with millions of people being affected each year. Although medical science has given us more ways than ever to fight against this disease, prevention still stands as the best course of action. 

In India, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has formulated extensive guidelines to help individuals reduce their chances of getting cancer. Dr. Manish Singhal, an eminent Oncologist in Noida, highlights the significance of these recommendations in enabling people to take charge of their health. This blog post seeks to give a preview of those essential suggestions.

Understanding Cancer and Its Causes

Cancer starts when cells in our body grow out of control, which leads to the formation of tumors, which can eventually spread to other parts of our bodies. Cancer causes are many, including genetic factors, environmental factors such as exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, lifestyle choices like smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol excessively, and infections like hepatitis B virus infection causing liver cancers. ICMR guidelines concentrate on reducing these risks through practicable steps.

1. Tobacco Control

The use of tobacco is one single largest preventable causes of cancer worldwide. As per a lung cancer doctor in Noida, it is associated with different types of cancers like lung cancer, oral cavity (mouth), pharynx (throat), and esophagus.

Recommendations

Quit Smoking

Get help from quitlines or programs and counseling services provided at healthcare facilities. Use nicotine replacement therapy if needed.

Avoid Secondhand Smoke

Support smoke-free home policies where people do not allow smoking inside houses or any enclosed places they live/work regularly. Let fresh air ventilate the space after someone smokes there so others don't breathe it too long.

Stay Away from Smokeless Tobacco

Chewing tobacco, like gutkha and khaini, poses equal risks as smoking does. It contains cancer-causing agents called tobacco-specific nitrosamines. If you or someone you know uses smokeless tobacco products, encourage them to quit.

2. Healthy Diet and Nutrition

Eating well can reduce the risk of getting cancer. A good diet should include different kinds of foods with essential nutrients required by our bodies for proper functioning.

Recommendations

Increase Fruit and Vegetable Intake

Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day because they are rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

Limit Red and Processed Meats

These types of meats have been associated with increasing chances of developing colorectal (bowel) cancer as well as other forms such as pancreas, stomach, etc.

Choose Whole Grains Over Refined Grains

Whole grains contain more nutrients like vitamins B complex & E alongside minerals such as magnesium and zinc. They also provide higher amounts of fiber than refined ones, which aids the digestion process. This reduces the risk factor for certain cancers, especially those affecting the digestive system like colon cancer.

Reduce Salt and Sugar Intake

Consuming too much salt can lead to high blood pressure known risk factor for stroke but it’s also associated with stomach cancers on the other hand. Excessive intake of added sugars found mainly in soft drinks, snacks, sweets, and desserts contributes greatly towards obesity. As per a breast cancer doctor in Noida, it increases the chances of getting breast-ovarian uterine cervix and prostate cancers.

3. Vaccination and Infection Control

Some infections are associated with cancer. Getting vaccines and preventing infections can reduce the risk of getting cancer in a significant way.

Recommendations

HPV Vaccine

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can prevent cervical and other cancers. It is recommended for preteens but can be given up to age 26.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B can cause liver cancer. All infants should be vaccinated against it, as well as high-risk adults.

Safe Practices

Don’t do things that will expose you to germs, like having unprotected sex or sharing needles.

4. Limiting Alcohol Consumption

Drinking too much alcohol increases your chance of getting cancers of the liver, breast, and colon.

Recommendations

Moderate Alcohol Intake

If you choose to drink alcohol, limit yourself to no more than one drink per day if you’re a woman or two drinks per day if you’re a man.

5. Environmental and Occupational Safety

Being around certain things in the environment or while working can increase your chances of getting cancer.

Recommendations

Avoid Exposure to Carcinogens

Try not to come into contact with known cancer-causing agents such as asbestos, benzene, and formaldehyde.

Use Protective Equipment

Protect yourself when handling dangerous materials by wearing gloves and masks and following instructions on product labels carefully about how best they should be used in each situation.

Conclusion

Following ICMR guidelines for cancer prevention can reduce your risk of developing cancer significantly. Dr. Manish Singhal from CCI, a prominent oncologist in Delhi, says that we cannot prevent all types of cancers, but making healthy choices based on knowledge will improve our overall well-being. All these steps with proper Breast Cancer Treatment In Delhi will empower us against this killer disease called cancer.

These measures not only increase the chances of avoiding cancers but also enhance good living standards. It’s never too late to start leading a healthier life. Do something positive today towards winning over malignant growths tomorrow.