Are You Increasing Your Cancer Risk?

Save PDF

Did you know that the choices you make can influence your risk of cancer? February is Cancer Prevention Month, and what better time is there to see if you’re increasing your cancer risk?

Question #1: Do you smoke?
a) Yes
b) No

Question #2: Fill in the blank. I am _____.
a) At a normal weight
b) Overweight
c) Obese

Question #3: Is your diet rich in fruits and vegetables?
a) Yes
b) No

Question #4: How physically active are you?
a) I get regular exercise
b) I get occasional exercise
c) I am not physically active

Calculate Your Risk:

1. a) 5 points, b) 0 points
   According to the CDC, “Compared to nonsmokers, men who smoke are about 23 times more likely to develop lung cancer and women who smoke are about 13 times more likely. Smoking causes about 90% of lung cancer deaths in men and almost 80% in women.”
2. a) 0 points, b) 5 points, c) 10 points
   Being overweight or obese significantly increases your risk of cancer, especially cancers of the prostate, breast, colon, and endometrium.
3. a) 0 points, b) 5 points
   MyPlate asserts, “Eating a diet rich in some vegetables and fruits as part of an overall healthy diet may protect against certain types of cancers.”
4. a) 0 points, b) 5 points, c) 10 points
   The National Cancer Institute has revealed that “There is strong evidence that physical activity is associated with reduced risk of cancers of the colon and breast. Several studies have also reported links between physical activity and reduced risk of endometrial (lining of the uterus), lung, and prostate cancers.”

If your score was 5 points or higher, then you are increasing your cancer risk. In fact, the higher your score, the higher your risk of cancer! Talk with your doctor or dietitian to find out how you can adjust your lifestyle to reduce your cancer risk.