Prevention of Cancer

A large share of cancers are preventable - not with exotic regimens, but with a short list done consistently. This is the list.

The big five

1. Stop tobacco - every form: smoking, gutka, khaini, paan with tobacco, supari. This alone prevents most mouth and lung cancers. Quitlines and de-addiction help exist; it is never too late to cut risk
2. Vaccinate: HPV vaccine for girls and boys (9-14 ideally) prevents most cervical cancer; hepatitis B vaccine prevents liver cancer
3. Alcohol: less is better, none is best
4. Weight, movement, plate: healthy weight, daily activity, vegetables-fruits-whole grains, limited processed meat
5. Screen on schedule: early detection is prevention's other half

Screening that matters in India

• Mouth self-check monthly + dental/doctor look for any tobacco or supari user - white/red patches or non-healing ulcers get checked in days
• Breast: monthly self-awareness; clinical exam and mammography by age and risk (typically 40s onward - follow your doctor's schedule)
• Cervix: Pap smear or HPV test per schedule from age 30 (or as advised); bleeding after intercourse is never ignored
• Colon: stool test/colonoscopy from 45-50, earlier with family history
• Family history of breast, ovarian or colon cancer: ask about genetic counseling - strong histories have their own screening clocks

Everyday exposures

• Sun protection for outdoor workers (shade, clothing, timing)
• Workplace protection where dusts, chemicals or asbestos exist - masks and ventilation are cancer prevention
• Avoid moldy stored grains and nuts; store dry
• Treat chronic hepatitis and H. pylori when found

The classical prevention

Classical prevention is seasonal routine, honest diet, not suppressing urges, and avoiding the chronic insults - their version of "reduce exposure, keep the tissue healthy." The modern list above is the same instinct with better instruments: vaccines and screening tests.

One-line summary

No tobacco ever, HPV and hepatitis B vaccines, less alcohol, healthy weight, and screening on schedule - that is most of cancer prevention, and every item on it is available in India today.