ساخت اکانت کاربری رایگان

مقالات پذیرفته شده کنگره

  • صفحه نخست
  • مقالات پذیرفته شده اولین کنگره بین المللی ژنتیک سرطان
بازنشر

  • Nutrition and lifestyle in cancer

  • Narges Karouji,1,*
    1. AJA UMS of medical science


  • Introduction: Cancer is defined as a disorder in the normal cell division and growth that leads to the accumulation of abnormal cells in different parts of the body, ultimately causing tissue destruction and impaired organ function. The development of cancer is influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, environmental exposures, and individual lifestyle choices. Many cancer cases are preventable through lifestyle modifications. Unhealthy dietary habits and poor lifestyle behaviors are significant risk factors for cancer. Conversely, adopting a healthy diet alongside physical activity and an appropriate lifestyle can substantially reduce cancer risk. Approximately 30–50% of all cancer cases are preventable through healthy diet and lifestyle choices. Studies have indicated that higher dietary quality is associated with a 23% reduction in overall mortality among cancer patients. The core pillars of cancer prevention include a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, avoidance of unhealthy habits, and attention to mental health. Effective and sustainable cancer prevention relies on small yet consistent daily choices.
  • Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using the keywords “cancer,” “nutrition,” “lifestyle,” “diet,” “physical activity,” and “mutation” in PubMed and Google Scholar databases. A total of 30 Persian and English articles published between 2021 and 2026 were selected and analyzed.
  • Results: Genetic changes or permanent DNA mutations occurring in the early stages of cancer development can be induced by environmental exposures. Lifestyle-based strategies can play an effective role in cancer prevention. These strategies include adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, avoiding ultra-processed foods, and increasing daily physical activity. Regular physical activity may regulate gene expression involved in cancer prevention and reduce chronic inflammation. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that regular consumption of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, can significantly lower the risk of various cancers. Foods high in antioxidants and fiber help protect cellular DNA from damage. A cancer-preventive diet emphasizes a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. In contrast, processed foods high in trans fats, animal-based saturated fats (such as red meat and high-fat dairy products), simple sugars, and chemical additives may activate oncogenes or suppress protective genes. Diets high in fat, sugar, and salt, and low in fiber, increase cancer risk. Tobacco and alcohol consumption are among the primary risk factors for many cancers; therefore, smoking cessation is one of the most critical preventive measures. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in sufficient physical activity, adhering to a balanced plant-based diet, and limiting fast food, sugar-sweetened beverages, red meat, and alcohol are recommended for health promotion. Stress management through meditation and deep breathing also plays a significant role in cancer prevention. Adequate and high-quality sleep is essential for cell repair, immune function, and inflammation reduction, thereby lowering cancer risk. Such a lifestyle may contribute to the prevention of cancer and other non-communicable diseases.
  • Conclusion: Cancer serves as a warning to reconsider our lifestyles and daily habits. Studies and follow-up data have shown that an increase of more than one unit in healthy lifestyle factors is associated with reduced overall mortality and cancer-specific mortality, whereas a decrease of more than one unit is linked to increased mortality. Awareness of factors that elevate cancer risk is the first and most crucial step in prevention. By adhering to a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding high-risk factors such as smoking and chronic stress, the incidence of many cancers can be reduced. The design of clinical trials to demonstrate the impact of lifestyle modifications on cancer prevention is necessary. Prompt policy-level action is also required to promote healthy living practices and create health-supportive environments to effectively reduce the risk of cancer and other non-communicable diseases.
  • Keywords: Cancer, Nutrition, Mutation, Physical Activity, Healthy Lifestyle.

به خانواده بزرگ کنسر ژنتیکس و ژنومیکس سرطان بپیوندید!

ایجاد حساب کاربری رایگان