What’s causing all this cancer?
Especially among young Black folks, what’s leading to this? While it’s not uncommon for older individuals to develop cancer or face more aggressive forms and diagnoses, how could this be happening among young people?
Here’s the good news. We know many of the reasons.
Now here’s the bad news. Just because we know the reasons, doesn’t mean there’s an easy fix.
What will really make this trend shift is a societal-level change. So let’s get right to it. Here are some of the top reasons cancer rates may be exploding among young Black men and women, and kids.
1. Environmental Pollutants
It’s all about location. Because countless Black communities are next to polluting industries and major highways, environmental crap is always a concern. Everything from air pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to lead, formaldehyde, and residues in your food, you never quite know what you’re getting.
A smart idea is to monitor daily pollution based on the weather. Advocate for change, and try to use filters for your water and air purifiers in your home if you can. If you like to walk, try to find more nature-friendly areas and avoid urban centers at high-traffic times.
By staying on top of these issues and pushing for change, you can make a meaningful difference before you know it.
2. Poor Housing Conditions
While it’s easy to blame contaminants and toxins in the environment outside, what about those inside behind closed doors?
Unfortunately, many Black families and children are exposed to substandard housing, which makes mold, lead, and poor ventilation a potential problem. As a result, respiratory issues and cancer risks can go through the roof if these issues are left unchecked.
There are three ways to address this. Again, advocate for better housing, get into local board meetings and make your voice as a concerned citizen heard. Secondly, ensure there are regular home inspections to address any hazards right away. And finally, rely on your community. See if there are local organizations, support groups, or resources put together by citizens like you.
3. Food Deserts
That’s deserts, not desserts.
Turns out, food deserts are one of the main predictors of health problems in the Black community. If there’s a lack of nutritious and affordable food, communities suffer. Poor dietary habits lead to other poor habits and the entire problem snowballs.
If you find yourself buying cheap and eating a lot of processed foods, look into local farmer’s markets or just corner stores entrenched in your community. See if there are any gardening initiatives, as you’d be surprised how many people are willing to grow produce if there’s a market or incentive.
Finally, get educated! Seek nutritional programs that promote personal responsibility and accountability, and share that with others. Together, you can encourage healthy dieting and overall better living.
4. Occupational Stressors
Work takes a toll, especially when it’s in the wrong environment. If you’re constantly working around hazardous materials, engaging in physically demanding labor, or simply aren’t getting ample time to rest and recover, these stressors can have a major effect.
Is your health compromised as a result?
Many Black employees disproportionately face higher occupational risks than other races. From construction to manufacturing, these enduring exposures can specifically increase the risks of cancers, such as those of the lungs and skin.
One way to combat these issues is by supporting regulations and initiatives to ensure workplace safety and security. Another way is to manage your own stress levels, whether through mental health counseling, mindful activities, or changes in your schedule. By putting the focus on health and safety education and training, you can help shift the discussion and protect yourself and your coworkers.
5. Not Enough Exercise
Last but not least is living the right way. Sedentary lifestyles – in which physical activity is limited – are one of the main causes of all diseases. This is because your body benefits from increased blood flow and exercise. Over time, consistent, manageable exercise allows you to reduce your risk of many issues, including type 2 diabetes, heart damage, cancer, neurological disorders, and more.
If you don’t have access to recreational facilities or find yourself struggling to get in a good workout, consider joining an online or in-person group. You may discover exercise areas and resources you didn’t even know existed.
Whether it’s just a game of pickleball, some yoga, a little hike or walk, or whatever, simply get out there and get involved.
The networking opportunities and socialization are a nice little benefit to boot!
By considering the factors in this article, you can drastically reduce your risk of cancer. It’s not rocket science, it’s nothing too difficult, it’s just about getting things going and sticking to ’em.