3 Environmental Factors That Cause Cancer & How to Avoid Them

You might come into contact with dozens of carcinogenic substances every single day, but the human body is surprisingly adept at killing off dangerous foreign compounds. Unfortunately, ongoing exposure to those cancer-causing substances is still extremely dangerous, and that is why you must do everything in your power to avoid carcinogens. With a few simple lifestyle changes, you can drastically reduce your risk of many different types of cancer while improving your overall health. Here are three things you should avoid.

Radon

Radon is a chemical element that becomes trapped in enclosed areas such as basements and crawlspaces. After years of exhaustive research, doctors now know that extended exposure to radon increases your risk of lung cancer. This gas is both invisible and odorless, and that means you must install specialty testing kits. Those who have radon in their home will need to consider buying an exhaust system that flushes this chemical element out. Many different companies around the country now build and install custom radon mitigation systems for homes and businesses.

Pollution

Air pollution is one of the most common environmental risk factors for cancer, and billions of people are exposed to these dangerous particles every day. Air pollution comes from many different things including trucks, cars, manufacturing facilities, and waste plants. If you believe that you live next to a source of pollution, then you should invest in a whole-home filtration system. You can also speak with your employer about having an air filtration system installed at your place of business. Modern HEPA filters remove over 99.9 percent of all particulates from the air, and that includes carcinogens.

Radiation

Most people don’t live next to a major source of radiation, but it is important to remember that radioactive chemicals can cause cancer. The most common sources of radiation that the average person comes into contact with are medical devices such as CT and X-ray machines. As a general rule, patients should be wary of using these devices unless they are absolutely necessary. The occasional X-ray or CT scan isn’t dangerous, but you should try to avoid having more than a few tests a year. Your doctor may be able to help you come up with different tests or scans that aren’t as invasive.

These few cancer-causing substances are only the tip of the iceberg, and that is everyone should constantly be on the lookout for potentially dangerous toxins and chemicals. If you believe that you might have been exposed to carcinogens, then you must head to a cancer treatment center for further testing.