Doctor, Can I Avoid Cancer?
![- MEDiscuss Honest Conversations 13](https://www.mediscuss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Honest-Conversations-13.jpeg)
Patient: “Doctor, I recently read that daily exposure to carcinogens that cause cancer is unavoidable. Is it true that they are everywhere?”
Doctor: “It is a concern. As you know, carcinogens are substances that can potentially cause cancer. Yes, they can be found in many places, from processed foods to household cleaners, and even in pollution from cars and factories.”
Patient: “Does that mean I’m going to get cancer for sure?”
Doctor: “Not necessarily. The relation between carcinogens and cancer depends on various factors, including the amount of exposure, how long you are in contact with that, as well as your genetic background and lifestyle choices. Exposure to carcinogens doesn’t always cause cancer, but it increases the risk.”
Patient: “Where do we commonly get these carcinogens?”
Doctor: “Common sources include tobacco smoke, alcohol, ultraviolet rays from the sun, air pollution, and some chemicals present in processed foods or drinks. Even some natural elements like radon gas in homes can be carcinogenic.”
Patient: “That’s quite scary! How can I protect myself and my family?”
Doctor: “Reduce exposure whenever possible. For example, you can avoid smoking and alcohol, and reduce time spent in direct sunlight. Keep your home well ventilated to reduce radon gas levels. Choose fresh, organic foods rather than highly processed foods.”
Patient: “Radon? Can you tell me more about it?”
Doctor: “Radon is a naturally present radioactive gas. It is colourless, odourless, and tasteless. It is produced when uranium decays. Uranium is present in nearly all soils and rocks. Radon can enter homes and buildings from the ground through cracks in floors and walls, or gaps around plumbing or sewage pipes.”
Patient: “Is it dangerous?”
Doctor: “Yes, radon is considered as a major carcinogen. It is the main cause of lung cancer in those who do not smoke. The risk increases if you have prolonged exposure to high levels of radon, especially if you also smoke.”
Patient: “I don’t smoke or drink alcohol, doctor.”
Doctor: “That’s very good.”
Patient: “I have heard that some people use air purifiers and eat only organic to avoid carcinogens in pesticides. Should I do that too?”
Doctor: “Air purifiers can help reduce some airborne toxins, and eating organic food can reduce your exposure to pesticides, but these do not provide a guarantee against cancer. It is best to adopt a balanced approach – focus on a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoid major carcinogens like tobacco and alcohol.”
Patient: “So, should we live in fear of everything we touch, eat and drink?”
Doctor: “Not at all. Be aware and make choices which reduce your risk. For example, let me tell you about one of my patients, Kumar. He used to work in a construction company and was exposed to asbestos, which is a known carcinogen. After learning about the risks, he made changes in his job to avoid exposure. He improved his lifestyle by quitting smoking and alcohol and started eating healthy food. His overall risk was reduced due to this.”
Patient: “That makes sense, doctor. I was scared. So I just need to be aware and do everything in balance and moderation?”
Doctor: “Exactly. Being aware of your environment and making healthy choices is important.”
Patient: “Thank you, Doctor.”
Doctor: “You are welcome.”
This article is part of the Honest Conversations series: Explore the articles from this series:
- Doctor, I Was Told To Have Atrial Fibrillation
- Doctor, Can I Avoid Cancer?
- Doctor, I Have Vertigo. What Can I Do Now?
- Doctor, Tell Me About High Blood Pressure
- Doctor, I Searched My Symptoms on Google!
- Doctor, I Can’t Sleep Well
- Doctor, Can I Sweets During Functions?
- Doctor, Are Vaccines Really Safe?
- Doctor, I Have Abdominal Bloating
- Doctor, Are Generic Medicines Really Safe?
- Doctor, Can I Do Blood Tests in Any Lab?
- Doctor, Can I Stop The Medicines Now?
- Doctor, Are There Any Side Effects?
- Doctor, Can You Guarantee A Cure?
- Honest Conversations in Healthcare – A Series
![Shashikiran Umakanth](https://www.mediscuss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/shashikiran-sm.png)
Dr Shashikiran Umakanth (MBBS, MD, FRCP Edin.) is Professor & Head of Internal Medicine at Dr TMA Pai Hospital, Udupi, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India. He shares his insights on Medicine, Health and Life here.