Final answer:
The two major controllable factors contributing to cancer deaths are smoking tobacco and the combination of diet and exercise. Smoking is responsible for approximately 90% of lung cancer deaths, while poor diet and physical inactivity contribute to high rates of obesity-related cancers. Making healthy lifestyle choices can prevent a significant percentage of cancer deaths.
Step-by-step explanation:
Controllable Factors Impacting Cancer Deaths
When looking at the controllable factors that contribute to cancer deaths, two significant factors stand out: smoking tobacco and diet and exercise. Smoking is a primary cause of lung and other types of cancers, accounting for about 90% of lung cancer fatalities. On the other hand, poor diet and physical inactivity are key contributors to obesity, which in turn is associated with at least a third of cancer deaths. Additionally, environmental risk factors, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and exposure to radon gas, also play a significant role in increasing the risk of cancers like skin and lung cancer, respectively.
Most cancer deaths could be prevented by making healthy lifestyle choices. Avoiding the use of tobacco could prevent an estimated 25 percent of cancer deaths. Moreover, eating right, getting adequate exercise, and avoiding obesity are critical steps that could prevent another 35 percent of cancer deaths. Cultural practices and regional lifestyle differences help in understanding the patterns and causes of cancer, making it easier to devise localized prevention strategies.
It is essential to recognize that while some factors are beyond one's control, there are several lifestyle choices that can significantly decrease the risk of developing cancer. Engaging in behaviors such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and protecting oneself from environmental carcinogens can greatly contribute to reducing the risk of cancer deaths.