Aliquot #141: The Lifestyle of Cancer Prevention
Aliquot #141: The Lifestyle of Cancer Prevention
A large share of cancer risk is shaped not by genetics alone, but by everyday patterns of behavior that influence long-term health. Physical activity, diet quality, alcohol intake, sleep, nutrient status, and body weight are consistently associated with differences in cancer risk across populations. At the core are two forces we can influence: the amount of cellular damage that accumulates over time, and the body's capacity to detect, repair, and remove that damage. In this Aliquot, I'm joined by exercise-oncology researcher Dr. Kerry Courneya to identify and prioritize the lifestyle behaviors that account for much of the difference in cancer risk and have the greatest long-term impact.
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A large share of cancer risk is shaped not by genetics alone, but by everyday patterns of behavior that influence long-term health. Physical activity, diet quality, alcohol intake, sleep, nutrient status, and body weight are consistently associated with differences in cancer risk across populations. At the core are two forces we can influence: the amount of cellular damage that accumulates over time, and the body's capacity to detect, repair, and remove that damage. In this Aliquot, I'm joined by exercise-oncology researcher Dr. Kerry Courneya to identify and prioritize the lifestyle behaviors that account for much of the difference in cancer risk and have the greatest long-term impact.
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Introduction
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The top 3 modifiable risk factors for cancer
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Quitting smoking is the most powerful step
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Obesity increases risk for at least 13 types of cancer
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Why exercise is essential for prevention
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Why whole foods and fiber are linked to lower colon cancer risk
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Processed meat and increased colon cancer risk
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Even moderate drinking increases risk
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Why sunscreen cuts melanoma risk by half
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Underrecognized environmental exposures
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The link between chronic stress and cancer
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The toll of disrupted sleep and shift work
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Why magnesium and vitamin D are low-hanging fruit for prevention
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The benefits of exercise go beyond weight loss
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How much exercise is enough to reduce cancer risk?
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