While it’s impossible to completely prevent leukaemia, adopting healthy lifestyle choices can significantly lower your risk. Leukaemia, a type of cancer that affects blood and bone marrow, often emerges without a clear cause. Following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, avoiding harmful chemicals, and protecting yourself from infections are practical steps that not only reduce the risk but also contribute to overall well-being.
Remember, reducing your risk doesn’t eliminate the possibility of developing it, but it certainly helps improve your chances for a healthier life.
Here are key lifestyle tips, shared by experts, that may lower your risk of leukaemia
Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise
Dr Sweta Lunkad, a haematologist and BMT physician from Jupiter Hospital in Pune, stressed on the importance of a well-rounded diet. “Incorporating lean meats, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can boost your immune system and lower your risk of leukaemia and other cancers,” she said.
Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the chances of genetic mutations leading to cancer.
Physical activity is also vital. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and strengthens the immune system. Dr Lunkad recommended at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, to enhance overall health.
Managing Obesity and Stress
Dr Liza Bulsara, a consultant pediatric hemato-oncologist, cited obesity as a risk factor for leukemia. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can lower your leukaemia risk.
Dr Bulsara also points out the dangers of prolonged stress, which can compromise the immune system and increase cancer risks. “Incorporating stress-relieving activities like yoga, deep breathing, or mindfulness meditation into your daily routine can improve both mental and physical health,” she said..
Avoiding Harmful Substances
Exposure to harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and benzene, commonly found in some buildings and workplaces, is another known risk factor for leukaemia. Dr Bulsara stressed the importance of avoiding these substances whenever possible to reduce your risk.
Smoking, which is associated with numerous cancers, including leukaemia, is also a major risk factor. Quitting smoking or avoiding it altogether is a simple yet effective way to lower your chances of developing leukaemia.
Guarding Against Infections
Certain infections, such as the Human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), have been linked to a higher risk of blood cancers, including leukaemia. Practising safe intimate behaviour and getting vaccinated against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV) can help reduce the risk.
