The International Agency For Research On Cancer (IARC) is responsible for collecting and publishing cancer statistics worldwide, and they have released a list of daily-use carcinogenic substances and activities that lead to an increased risk of cancer. The term carcinogenic describes a substance’s potential to cause cancer. To ensure you’re not using such products and avoid all types of household carcinogenic, here are 14 items and daily activities that may increase the risk of cancer: Arsenic in drinking water Arsenic is a highly toxic chemical that is used in the manufacturing process. Improper treatment of production waste can lead to arsenic dumping in rivers and lakes. This can seep into the groundwater, find its way into our homes, and increase the risk of liver, lung, kidney, and bladder cancer. If you live in an area where this is a concern, consider investing in a reverse osmosis (RO) filter to remove arsenic from drinking water. Chimney sweeping Chimney sweeping is the old practice of cleaning the dust and soot out of the chimneys. This process is now mechanized and does not require human intervention. However, inhalation or accidental ingestion of coal or wood fumes and residue raised the risk of a special form of cancer, now known as ‘chimney sweep cancer’.

The foods one eats may have a direct effect on their overall health. Therefore, when one consumes unhealthy foods, they risk developing or worsening health conditions. One of the most common complications that might worsen due to these foods intake includes cancer. The eatables usually contain carcinogenic compounds that lead to health complications. So here are nine foods that one should exclude from their meals if they are at risk of developing cancer. French fries Who doesn’t love indulging in a pack of french fries at home or a fast food joint? Well, this food is one of the worst options for human health, more so for people with cancer. Starchy food produces a substance known as acrylamide when it is heated at higher temperatures. The property has shown signs of worsening the risk of cancer in patients. The chemical may damage the DNA in healthy cells, leading to their death, which can aggravate the symptoms of cancer. One should note that french fries may increase inflammation and oxidative stress, two common cancer triggers. Individuals should also avoid fried foods such as chicken strips, cheese sticks, and fried fish, as these may also worsen cancer symptoms. Beef and pork Red meats like beef and pork are some of the unhealthiest food sources for people at risk of cancer.

With processed and packaged foods and sedentary lifestyles becoming the norm in today’s fast-paced world, there has been an unprecedented increase in cholesterol levels. About 86 million adults nationwide have total cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dL. High cholesterol can increase one’s risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. Detecting this condition early on can help curb its symptoms. Here are some signs of high cholesterol and tips to control the levels. 14 signs of high cholesterol High blood pressure Cholesterol plaque and calcium can cause the hardening of one’s arteries, increasing the pressure exerted on the heart to pump blood. Consequently, the blood pressure levels of individuals with high cholesterol are elevated. Type-2 diabetes According to the American Heart Association, diabetes can increase one’s risk of developing a health condition called dyslipidemia, characterized by abnormal levels of lipids, including high LDL or bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels and low levels of HDL or good cholesterol. Thus, the prevalence of type-2 diabetes increases one’s probability of having high cholesterol. Peripheral arterial disease High cholesterol levels can cause the buildup of cholesterol plaque and calcium in the heart, hardening one’s arteries and increasing one’s risk of peripheral arterial disease.

Water is one of the vital elements for a person’s survival. Apart from the fact that it makes up about 60% of the body, water is key to the functionality of all systems in an individual. For example, water helps optimize blood circulation, ensuring that all the organs and parts of the body receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen to run efficiently. Here are some side effects of inadequate water intake: Persistent headaches Not drinking enough water during the day is particularly bad for people with migraines and other headache-driven health conditions. Not consuming water for long periods either causes headaches or makes them worse. The pain can get to throbbing and ear-splitting levels, seriously affecting a person’s ability to perform tasks. This is why healthcare experts advise people suffering from headaches to drink a few glasses of water and rest to relatively and gradually calm down the pain. On average, it takes about two to three hours to reduce a headache after one consumes water. Insufficient water intake is directly related to water not reaching the brain area, causing these throbbing headaches. Therefore, it is always handy to always keep a water-filled bottle by one’s side. Disturbances of fluid balance An inadequate intake of water and fluids tends to thicken the blood over a period of time.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a condition characterized by irregular heart rhythm. It can lead to blood clotting if left untreated. Several factors contribute to the development of the condition, including what one eats. Certain foods worsen the symptoms and frequency of AFib episodes, while others can support heart health and help alleviate the condition. So, here is a look at a few foods that can worsen AFIb and should be avoided: What is atrial fibrillation? Atria refers to the upper chambers of the heart. Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder characterized by irregular and rapid electrical signals in the organ. When the signals become irregular, it leads to poor circulation of blood and heart palpitations, with the atria quivering instead of contracting as they normally would. Common symptoms one may experience with AFib are chest pain, trouble breathing, lightheadedness, fatigue, and dizziness. In the worst cases, it may lead to heart stroke and heart failure. Foods to avoid Coffee and energy drinks Coffee contains high levels of caffeine—a stimulant that is known to increase heart rate and worsen AFib episodes. Other beverages like energy drinks, black tea, and some soft drinks also are rich in caffeine and are best avoided or limited to avoid worsening the symptoms.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum, causing sores, ulcers, and bleeding. Symptoms for this condition generally develop between the ages of 15 and 30 or between 50 to 70. The condition develops in flare-ups and then may disappear for weeks or months at a time. Here are some of the early signs of ulcerative colitis one may observe: Diarrhea One of the early signs of ulcerative colitis that people notice is watery diarrhea combined with a frequent and sudden urge to pass bowel movements. One may feel the need to pass bowel movements up to 10 times a day, and this can significantly affect their daily life. For those living with UC, uncontrollable diarrhea could lead to medical emergencies like severe dehydration, perforated colon, or sepsis. Rectal bleeding Those with UC may also experience blood or mucus in their stools, especially during a flare. This is because the blood from the ulcers reaches the surface of the rectum. One should consult a doctor immediately after observing this symptom. Abdominal and rectal pain People with UC may experience mild-to-severe abdominal or rectal pain. It may also occur in the form of persistent muscle spasms and cramping.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart rhythm disorder affecting millions worldwide. Understanding the causes and early signs of AFib is crucial for timely detection, intervention, and effective management. The subtle yet vital signs that indicate its presence can be mistaken as nothing serious or a symptom of some other health condition. By unraveling the mysteries behind AFib, it is essential to empower oneself with the knowledge that can lead to proactive heart health management and improved quality of life. Causes of atrial fibrillation Age As one grows old, the risk of developing atrial fibrillation increases. The wear and tear on the heart’s electrical system over time can disrupt its normal rhythm and lead to AFib. Additionally, age-related conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and underlying structural abnormalities can further predispose individuals to AFib. High blood pressure Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for atrial fibrillation. Persistent elevation in blood pressure can damage the heart’s electrical system and promote irregular heartbeats. Managing and controlling blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and appropriate healthcare interventions is crucial in reducing the risk of developing AFib. Heart conditions and diseases Various heart conditions and diseases can contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation.

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in which a person’s digestive tract tissues undergo inflammation and swelling. While it affects several digestive areas, this disease commonly targets the small intestine. It causes severe pain and discomfort in the abdomen region. Healthcare experts can diagnose the condition by detecting some of its more prevalent symptoms. Thus, here are some of the common early signs of Crohn’s disease you must note. Diarrhea Crohn’s disease is characterized by frequent flare-ups. As specified earlier, this includes inflammation and swelling in the tissues of one’s digestive tract. As a result, the intestine walls cannot absorb any nutrients, causing the waste residue to pass through without much natural processing. Due to this and the swelling, an individual’s stools are also badly affected. A person’s motions become loose, watery, and sometimes entirely liquid because of Crohn’s frequent flare-ups. This is why people with this condition start experiencing diarrhea regularly, along with this health condition’s flare-ups. Abdominal pain Pain in the lower part of one’s tummy is not uncommon for those who suffer from Crohn’s disease. In fact, this is an early symptom that a person is living with this disorder. The above-mentioned inflammation and swelling in the intestines tend to put a lot of pressure in and around the abdomen areas and the organs that are placed there.