Everyday Things That Could Raise Your Cancer Risk

Cancer remains one of humanity’s most devastating health challenges, yet many people are unaware that some of the everyday choices we make can quietly increase our risk. While genetics and pure chance play roles, lifestyle factors matter far more than most realize. The good news? Many risks can be reduced simply by becoming more informed and making small changes.

Everyone knows the usual culprits, smoking, excessive drinking, unhealthy diets. But what if everyday items like your shopping receipts, deodorant, or even your favourite cup of tea could be quietly nudging your cancer risk upward? Let’s break down some surprising (and not-so-surprising) everyday things that science links to cancer and what you can do differently.

Areca Nut: You’ve probably heard of coffee, but the areca nut, commonly chewed in parts of Asia, is a powerful stimulant too. Unfortunately, it comes with a serious downside. Research links frequent chewing of the areca nut to an increased risk of oral cancer, thanks to chemicals that irritate and damage mouth tissues over time. If you ever find yourself in a region where this is common practice, this is one habit worth skipping completely.

Salt-Cured Fish: Salt-cured fish is enjoyed in different cultures, but it can contain very high levels of nitrates. When nitrates react with proteins in the body, they form nitrosamines, compounds known to damage DNA. This significantly raises the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer. While you don’t have to avoid it entirely, moderation is essential.

Wood Dust: If you work with wood, whether professionally or as a DIY enthusiast, you need to take wood dust seriously. The tiny particles are classified as carcinogenic, particularly linked with nasal cancer. A simple protective face mask can drastically reduce your exposure.

Contraceptive Pills and Cervical Cancer: Studies show that long-term use of contraceptive pills may slightly increase the risk of cervical cancer. While the pill is very safe for most women, it’s important to have regular screenings and discuss personal risk factors with your healthcare provider.

Hot Tea: A hot cup of tea can be comforting, but extremely hot beverages, especially above 65°C, are associated with esophageal cancer. The solution? Let your tea cool just a little. Your throat will thank you.

Unprotected Intercourse and HPV: Some STDs, especially human papillomavirus (HPV), are directly linked to cervical, genital, and even throat cancers. Using protection, getting screened, and considering the HPV vaccine can significantly reduce these risks.

Sitting Too Long: We’re all guilty of this one. Long periods of physical inactivity increase the risk of lung, colon, and breast cancer. Adding even short bursts of physical activity into your day, like a brisk 10-minute walk, can make a real difference.

Your Height: Interestingly, being tall comes with about a 10% higher cancer risk for every 10 cm of height. Scientists suspect this is simply because taller people have more cells, and more cells mean more opportunities for mutations. Nothing to change here, just one of nature’s quirks.

Shopping Receipts: Thermal receipts often contain bisphenol-A (BPA) – a hormone-disrupting chemical linked to cancer. You can limit exposure by:

Washing hands after touching them

Choosing digital receipts

Avoiding handling receipts for long periods

Smoke From the Grill: Barbecues are fun, but the smoke contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), cancer-causing chemicals that can be inhaled or absorbed through your skin. If you’re the designated grill master, consider wearing a mask and standing upwind.

Breast or Cosmetic Implants: There is a slightly elevated risk of anaplastic large-cell lymphoma in people with certain implants. Although the risk is small, it’s worth discussing with a medical professional before undergoing any procedure.

Alcohol: Alcohol increases the risk of several cancers, including liver, breast, and colon cancer. According to researchers, 6% of cancer-related deaths globally are linked to drinking. Cutting down even slightly is a powerful step toward better long-term health.

Betel Quid: Often chewed with areca nut, betel quid raises oral cancer risk whether tobacco is added or not. It’s widely used in parts of Asia, but its dangers are well documented.

Aristolochic Acid in Herbal Medicine: Found in certain Chinese medicinal herbs, aristolochic acid is associated with kidney disease and urothelial cancers. Always buy herbal supplements from reputable sources, preferably backed by scientific testing.

Processed Meat: From sausages to bacon, processed meat is classified by the World Health Organization as Group 1 carcinogenic, the same category as tobacco. It has strong associations with bowel cancer. Reducing intake can significantly lower risk.

Weight and Cancer Risk: Being overweight or obese almost doubles the risk of developing several cancers, including stomach, liver, kidney, and esophagus cancers. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced eating and activity is essential.

Sunbeds: Sunbeds may promise a tan, but they expose you to intense UV radiation, increasing the risk of skin cancer and cataracts. Opt for self-tanning lotions or sprays instead.

Arsenic in Water: In some regions, tiny amounts of arsenic may seep into tap water from factory waste. Long-term exposure raises the risk of skin, liver, lung, kidney, and bladder cancer. A high-quality home water filter can help reduce exposure significantly.

Open Car Windows in Traffic: Those moments sitting in traffic with your windows down might be exposing you to harmful vehicle fumes capable of causing DNA damage leading to lung and bladder cancer. Switching to internal air circulation helps protect your lungs.

Dry-Cleaned Clothes: Some dry-cleaning chemicals, especially older ones, have been associated with bladder, liver, and cervical cancer risks. Try to air out dry-cleaned clothes before wearing them.

Mineral Oil in Cosmetic Products: Mineral oils, a by-product of crude oil refining, are present in many lotions and cosmetic products. Long-term skin exposure has been linked to certain cancers, suggesting it’s wise to choose natural or certified-safe alternatives.

Cancer prevention isn’t about living in fear, it’s about awareness. As this list shows, many everyday risks are manageable once you know what to look out for. Small, simple changes like choosing digital receipts, being active, adjusting your drinking habits, and filtering your water can go a long way.

Knowledge is power and when it comes to cancer, it can also be protection.