Is cancer preventable?

The risk of developing cancer is affected by many factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and the environment. It is typically difficult to identify a reason for one person developing cancer and for another not developing it.

According to studies, certain risk factors raise the probability of developing cancer. Therefore, one of the key cancer prevention strategies is to lower your cancer risk factors.

In Malaysia, reducing preventable or modifiable risk factors can prevent approximately 1 out of 4 cases of cancer.

Prevention is the best option. There are four general strategies for preventing cancer: maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet, avoiding cancer-causing substances, taking cancer-preventive medicines or vaccines, and going for health screening regularly.

Did you know 1 in every 4 new cancer cases can be prevented in Malaysia?

12 ways to lower your risk of developing cancer

The 4^th edition of the European Code against Cancer recommends taking the following measures to help prevent cancer:

Avoid smoking and using tobacco.

Several cancers have been linked to cigarette smoking, which is the leading preventable cause of cancer.
Encourage smoke-free homes and workplaces.

Passive smoking (second-hand smoke) is a known cause of lung cancer.
Maintain a healthy body weight.

Excess body fat raises the risk of several cancers.
Practise & live a physically active lifestyle.

While sedentary behaviour has been linked to an increased risk of developing cancer, physical activity lowers the risk of several types of cancer.
Eat healthily.
- Consume diets rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits
- Limit the intake of high-calorie (foods heavy in fat or sugar) and stay away from sugary drinks
- Limit the intake of processed meat, red meat and foods high in salt
Limit the consumption of alcohol.

Alcohol consumption causes cancer, even in small or moderate amounts.
Reduce exposure to sunlight (especially children) and always use sun protection.

Ultraviolet radiation is the main cause of skin cancer.
Follow health and safety guidelines and instructions to protect yourself from cancer-causing chemicals at workplaces.

Certain metals, chemicals, fibres, dusts (occupational hazards) have been found to raise the risk of developing certain cancers.
Determine if you are exposed to radiation from radon gases and take measures to reduce their levels.

Radon gases are radioactive and are present at high levels at specific locations. These gases are known to cause cancer.
For women:
- Breastfeed your baby if possible as it lowers the risk of developing cancer.
- Limit the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as it raises the risk of developing certain cancers.
Ensure your children are vaccinated against:
- Hepatitis B (for newborns): Hepatitis B can cause liver cancer.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) (for girls): HPV can cause several cancers including cervical cancer.
Get screened for:
- Colorectal (colon) cancer (men and women)
- Breast cancer (women)
- Cervical cancer (women)

Cancer Risk Quiz

Take our Cancer Risk Quiz and find out what you can do to reduce your risk.

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

If you experience any signs and symptoms of cancer or would like to be screened for cancer, get in touch with us to find out more about our Oncology Services at your nearest Pantai Hospital.

A dedicated multidisciplinary team of specialists and oncologists at Pantai Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance to patients through screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.