The National Cancer Institute of America defines cancer as "a disease in which some of the body's cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body." Major causes include genetic mutations, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and infections. Experts now call it a lifestyle disease, which has reached epidemic levels in many countries.

In Bangladesh, diagnosis is limited, surveillance is inadequate, and treatment is expensive. In a highly polluted city like Dhaka, thousands likely have undiagnosed cancer. With unhealthy food and lifestyle habits, the disease may be far more prevalent than reported.

Common cancers in Bangladeshi women include breast, oral, stomach, tracheal, thyroid, ovarian, and cervical cancer. In men, tracheal, stomach, lung, oral, and esophageal cancers are more frequent. Bangladesh has 13–15 lakh cancer patients, with two lakh new cases annually. Cancer accounts for 10% of all deaths and ranks as the sixth leading cause of noncommunicable disease-related mortality. This number is likely underreported due to limited diagnosis and awareness, leading to delayed treatment.

The medical system treats cancer as a genetic lottery, yet genetics alone do not explain rising cancer rates. Over the past 50 years, our environment has changed a lot. Pollution, junk food, adulterated food, and unhealthy cooking habits have increased. Exposure to electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) from power lines, cell phones, Wi-Fi, and microwaves is another concern. EMFs disrupt cellular function, while microplastics, chronic stress, heavy metals, seed oils, artificial light, and poor metabolic health contribute to rising cancer rates. European studies have linked prolonged EMF exposure to an increased risk of leukaemia.

Cancer is not random. Our body creates and destroys cancer cells daily, but the disease takes hold when the immune system is weakened by stress, poor sleep, and toxins. Bangladesh faces severe plastic pollution, with rivers and water sources contaminated. Formalin, commonly used in food preservation, releases formaldehyde gas, which is highly toxic. It can cause kidney failure, neurological damage, and even coma.

Preventing or managing cancer requires lifestyle changes. Natural ways to fight cancer include:

• Morning sunlight—30 minutes within an hour of waking.

• Quality animal protein—grass-fed meat twice daily.

• Organ meats—liver, heart, and kidney weekly.

• Raw dairy—unpasteurised milk and cheese.

• Oysters—6-8 weekly for zinc and minerals.

• Reduced EMF exposure—Aeroplane mode at night, turning off electronic devices.

• Proper sleep—In bed by 10 PM.

• Eliminate processed food—avoid chips, chocolates, and soda.

Regular exercise reduces the risk of 13 types of cancer, including metabolic cancers. Even after diagnosis, exercise lowers the risk of death from breast, prostate, and colon cancer. A study in Cell Press found that exercise inhibits tumour growth by cutting off its blood supply. High-fibre foods like lentils, chia seeds, avocados, oats, almonds, popcorn, apples, and broccoli help detoxify the body.

Small lifestyle changes can make a difference. Avoid short-distance rickshaw rides—walk instead. If worried about the sun, use an umbrella or sunscreen. Use stairs instead of elevators. Wear a mask to protect against air pollution. Avoid bottled juices and sodas, opting for fresh fruits and vegetables.

Cancer treatment is expensive, but prevention is cost-effective. Changing your environment and lifestyle can help fight cancer, manage its progression, and lead to a healthier life.

E-mail: [email protected]