Understanding Cancer Risk Factors
Cancer rates among young people are increasing. According to the American Cancer Society, over 2 million individuals were diagnosed with cancer in 2023, with a rising number of cases found in those under 50.
Following the diagnoses of public figures like Princess Kate Middleton and Olivia Munn, there's been a surge in cancer prevention content on social media platforms like Tik Tok, with doctors and influencers offering advice to mitigate risk.
While many of these online resources may contain accurate information, there's a danger of unintentionally suggesting that an individual's risk of cancer is entirely within their control.
"Cancer is basically a result of changes in the cell's DNA, in the genetic blueprint," Deepa Halaharvi, DO, OhioHealth breast cancer surgeon shared with Chandler Plante of POPSUGAR.com. "Some of the cancer can be inherited from our parents, others can be caused by outside exposures, referred to as environmental factors,” she said.
Breast cancer, for instance, is influenced by several factors such as family medical history, breast density, and the age of one’s first period.
Dr. Halaharvi noted that structural, socioeconomic, and racial disparities can play a significant role in cancer risk as well. Black communities in particular are at a higher risk for developing breast, lung, and colorectal cancers, she said.
With the focus on controllable factors in online cancer prevention content, Dr. Halaharvi cautioned against oversimplification.
"It's not a fad. It should be a lifestyle," she said.
Dr. Halaharvi recommends lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and eating a balanced diet rich in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and cabbage.
While these behaviors can help reduce risk, they don't ensure prevention. Dr. Halaharvi encouraged staying up to date with screenings such as mammograms and MRIs that help detect cancer earlier and lead to better outcomes.
Doctors have a clearer understanding of how actionable changes can impact certain cancers, such as breast cancer, but the same level of insight is not available for others, like eye cancer, Dr. Halaharvi said.
No matter what cancer concerns individuals may have, understanding one's family history and consulting with a healthcare provider are crucial steps in prevention.
To learn more about OhioHealth’s cancer care, click here.
