Cancer is no longer just a health risk for the elderly. According to Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat, a neurologist and founder of SabkiSehat, the rising number of cancer cases in India is largely due to the way people live today. She explained in a recent video that the spike in cases isn’t because cancer is new, but because lifestyle habits have drastically changed over the years.
She pointed out that things like scented candles, perfumes, and food cooked in reused oil, especially from restaurants, contain cancer-causing chemicals. These everyday products, which are now common in many households, are exposing people to harmful substances without them even realising it.
Lifestyle Choices Behind Rise In Cancer Cases
Dr. Sehrawat believes that people today are unknowingly surrounding themselves with carcinogens. She mentioned that using certain household items and eating oily, reheated food increases long-term cancer risk. These aren\’t rare exposures, but a part of regular life for many.
She also emphasised that the body doesn’t react immediately, but with time, damage builds up. That’s why avoiding these products and making small lifestyle changes can go a long way in reducing cancer risk.
Early Screening Is Crucial After 40
Apart from cutting down exposure to harmful substances, Dr. Sehrawat stressed the importance of early detection. She said that with better public awareness and improved medical testing, spotting cancer early is now possible, and should become a habit, especially after the age of 40.
For women, she recommended doing breast self-exams every day while bathing. Mammograms should be done every two years after age 40, or earlier if there’s a family history of breast cancer. Cervical cancer screening should begin at age 40 and be repeated every three years. She also highlighted the need for girls aged 9 to 26 to get the HPV vaccine.
For men, she advised getting blood tests for tumour markers like CA 125, AFP, and CA 19-9 after the age of 40, which help detect cancers like pancreatic or colon cancer at early stages.
Dr. Sehrawat wrapped up her message by saying that staying cancer-free isn’t just about treatment; it’s about prevention. Regular screening and lifestyle improvements are key to reducing cancer risk. As people age, taking these steps becomes even more important to stay healthy and ahead of the disease.
