Everyday Habits and Their Impact on Cancer Risk: Insights from Oncologist Dr. Ruchir Tandon
Oncologist explains how everyday habits affect cancer risk: ‘Window for action is wider than most people think’

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Dr. Ruchir Tandon, a senior oncologist, emphasizes that 40% of cancers are preventable through lifestyle changes. Key factors include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and making dietary adjustments. Small, consistent changes can significantly reduce cancer risk over time.
- 01Smoking accounts for nearly 30% of all cancer deaths and poses risks even to non-smokers through passive exposure.
- 02Obesity is linked to at least 13 types of cancer, with exercise reducing risks by 10 to 20%. Just 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly can help.
- 03Processed meats increase colorectal cancer risk by 18% with just 50 grams consumed daily.
- 04Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer globally, yet many homes remain untested for it.
- 05Night-shift work is classified as a probable carcinogen due to its disruption of melatonin production.
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Dr. Ruchir Tandon, a senior consultant in medical oncology at ShardaCare-Healthcity, highlights that 40% of all cancers are preventable through lifestyle changes. He identifies smoking as the leading preventable cause, responsible for nearly 30% of cancer deaths, and warns that passive smoking can increase lung cancer risk by up to 30% for non-smokers. Obesity follows as the second major risk factor, linked to at least 13 types of cancer. Regular exercise, such as 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, can reduce the risk of several cancers by 10 to 20%. Diet also plays a crucial role; for instance, just 50 grams of processed meat daily can raise colorectal cancer risk by 18%. Additionally, Dr. Tandon points out lesser-known risks, such as radon gas exposure and the dangers of night-shift work, which disrupt melatonin production and are classified as probable carcinogens. He encourages individuals to make small, sustainable changes in their habits, as these can significantly lower cancer risk over time.
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Implementing small lifestyle changes can significantly reduce cancer risk, benefiting individuals' long-term health and well-being.
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