How Not to Die: Cancer Edition
Sent to subscribers on Jul 9, 2024. Reproduced here as it was written.
I'm Jacob Katz, and this is The Renewal: an independent, ad-free, subscriber-supported health newsletter that summarizes free tools for everyday life.
If there's one topic that doesn't get enough attention in medicine, it's causality. Keep reading to learn what causes cancer.
Globally, cancer claims about 11 to 12 million lives each year. Individually, the odds are about 1 in 3 that you will face cancer in your lifetime. If that's not enough to make you spit out your coffee, the chances of dying from cancer are about 1 in 6.
Prostate Cancer: A Sneaky Guest
Gentlemen, here's a fun fact: More men die with prostate cancer than because of it. Men, if you live long enough, you will develop prostate cancer.
But don't panic; we shouldn't die from it. Prostate cancer and colon cancer are easy to screen and treat in their infancy. So, the fact that people still die from these is utterly unacceptable.
The Genetics Jacuzzi
Less than 5% of cancers result from genetic mutations inherited from our parents. This means most cancers are due to mutations acquired over our lifetime (thanks, life). If you really care about this 5% check out 23andMe - unless you don't love the idea of giving your DNA to a large corporation.
The Villains: Smoking and Obesity
30 years ago we thought smoking was good for you. We now are all fully aware smoking is bad, and one of the top drivers of cancer. And our good ol' friend, obesity is the second most prevalent environmental driver. Not because you're carrying extra love handles, but because of the insulin resistance and inflammation that come with it.
Screening: Your New BFF
Catching cancer early is everything. The earlier, the better. Modern screening techniques like MRI and liquid biopsies are your best bet. These tools help detect even microscopic levels of cancer, giving you a fighting chance. And for those of you with a family history, early and frequent screenings are crucial.
Radiation: The Hidden Enemy
While it's essential to screen for cancer, be wary of radiation exposure. A whole-body CT scan can expose you to high levels of radiation - about 10 to 20 mSv. No one should be exposed to more than 50 millisieverts of radiation per year. So, always ask how much radiation you're being exposed to before agreeing to any imaging study.
Unfortunately, there's no magical anti-cancer diet or exercise regimen that guarantees you'll never get cancer. But hey, you're here to live 1% better every week.
P.S. Don't put your nuts in the microwave.
Best,
Jacob & The Renewal team