Oncologist outlines lifestyle habits to minimize cancer risks

Dr. Khalila Choucair, an oncologist at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, has identified specific lifestyle habits that can help minimize cancer risks. Experts suggest that approximately 30 percent of cancer cases may be influenced by diet and lifestyle choices, with obesity linked to roughly 4 to 8 percent of all oncological diseases.

Key risk factors highlighted include tobacco use, obesity, and diets high in ultra-processed foods with low fruit and vegetable intake. To mitigate these risks, Dr. Choucair avoids several common habits:

1. Regular consumption of fast food, particularly fried foods and fatty meats, which may contain substances like acrylamide. 2. Adding sugar or sweeteners to coffee and tea, as regular consumption of these beverages without additives is associated with a lower risk of certain cancers.

Addressing chronic inflammation, hormone regulation, and immune system function through diet is considered a vital component of prevention.