Am I at Risk for Cancer?

			
			

				
				
We are all at risk for cancer. But we are also all able to help lower the risk by making healthy choices about the way we live our lives. 

Here are some general guidelines you can use to help you determine how likely it is that you will get cancer. Make sure you talk to a doctor to find out whether you are at risk for cancer because of other factors. Remember, cancerous cells can form in anyone at any time, so if you have any signs of cancer, talk to your health care provider immediately. Do not wait.
According to the American Cancer Society, general risk factors for cancer include:  
  • A family history of cancer
  • Tobacco use
  • Unprotected exposure to strong sunlight 
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Alcohol use
  • Exposure to certain infectious diseases
  • Exposure to environmental toxins, such as radiation and chemicals