As we ring in 2023 today, many will explore their New Year's resolutions. The tradition of New Year's resolutions is seeded deep in history. In fact, the ancient Babylonians made promises to their pagan gods during their New Year celebrations. After making promises resembling some modern-day resolutions, such as paying off debts and returning borrowed items, the Babylonians believed they would receive favor from their gods in the New Year if they kept their word. During the reign of Julius Caesar, the Romans promised good behavior in the upcoming year. In the 1700s, Christians partook in a ceremony called watch night which included reflecting on past mistakes and resolving to improve in the future.
Today, many New Year’s resolutions have evolved from religious celebrations to personal promises made to oneself. We resolve to change a trait, accomplish goals, or improve the overall behavior at the beginning of the year. While resolutions often aim to make us better individuals, many could have positive side effects, like preventing cancer. Today we will take a quick look at some common New Year’s resolutions that have some anti-cancer effects.
Resolution #1: Exercise more
Significant evidence shows that exercise and physical activity can reduce risk of several malignancies, including breast, prostate, colon, endometrium, and pancreatic cancer. In addition, several studies have shown that exercise regimens, after diagnosis, associate with longer survival and can reduce the chances of cancer recurrence.
Resolution #2: Eat more fruits and veggies
Evidence suggests that eating fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of cancers, including lung and upper gastrointestinal tract cancers. Many fruits and vegetables also contain high levels of nutrients and antioxidants like vitamin E and β-carotene, which have established anti-cancer properties.
Resolution #3: Drink less
Alcohol consumption is associated with many cancers, including liver, colorectal, and breast cancers. Alcohol consumption contributes to nearly 6% of cancer cases and 4% of cancer deaths. Notably, alcohol remains one of the most modifiable risk factors for cancer, meaning that reducing alcohol intake can confer a significant and notable reduction in an individual’s risk of developing cancer.
Resolution #4: Quit smoking
Likely the least surprising cancer-preventing resolution on our list is quitting smoking. While awareness of smoking-related lung cancer is high, many don’t know smoking is also associated with other cancers, like colorectal, liver, and stomach cancers. Like alcohol, smoking remains a highly modifiable cancer risk factor, contributing to 42% of cancer incidences and 45% of cancer-related mortalities. Smoking both causes cancer development and hinders the body and immune system from fighting a growing cancer.
One additional New Year’s resolution that could benefit overall health, stay up to date on all cancer screenings! Best of luck to all those working hard to keep New Year’s resolutions this year!
Sources: History.com, Br J Cancer, CA, NLM