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Blood Cancer Prevention

According to information from the experts at Intellihealth.com, the main types of blood cancer include lymphoma, multiple myeloma and leukemia. While there are no sure bets when it comes to avoiding any of these cancers, you can nevertheless minimize the risk factors that are under your control.

  1. Blood Cancers

    • The various types of blood cancers all involve abnormal development of cells within the bone marrow and bloodstream. While both leukemia and multiple myeloma originate in the marrow of the bones, lymphoma affects the lymphatic system of the body. General symptoms of these cancers include weight loss, fever, localized pain in the bones, and slow-healing injuries.

    Chemical Exposure

    • Exposure to hazardous chemicals is one of the major risk factors for developing blood cancer, so avoid situations involving dangerous chemicals whenever possible. These include, but are not limited to, pesticides, benzene (a chemical present in unleaded gas), herbicides and insecticides. If you must be exposed to these chemicals, attempt to minimize contact time with bare skin and wear a mask to prevent inhalation.

    Radiation

    • Exposure to high levels of radiation is also a common risk factor for contracting blood cancer. This includes individuals who are exposed to radiation as part of their job (for example, those working in a nuclear power plant), but it also includes individuals exposed to radiation through medical procedures such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Thus, minimizing the time in which you are exposed to radiation can help you to effectively prevent blood cancer.

    Exercise

    • According to the American Cancer Society, regular exercise has been shown to reduce cancer risk. The ACS recommends at least 30 minutes per day of moderate exercise, performed at least five days per week. Moderate-intensity exercise can take many forms, including brisk walking, jogging, strength training or swimming. While 30 minutes per day is a good starting point, remember that more exercise is almost always better.

    Diet

    • Finally, the ACS also notes that a healthy diet can help avoid the development of cancers, including blood cancer. Consume a diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables while minimizing consumption of saturated and trans fats. Keep to a healthy weight as well, as obesity is another risk factor that can increase your odds of developing cancer.

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