In today's complicated world our lives are filled with risks for all types of accidents and diseases. One of those diseases that strikes so many and fills so many with dread is cancer. However, some types of cancer can be avoided if you choose a lifestyle that avoids certain risks.

*DO NOT SMOKE. If you do, stop. Smoking and using tobacco in any form has been directly linked to cancer. It is the single most important thing you can do to help your body. Tobacco use is the most preventable cause of death. Smoking can cause coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer of the lungs, larynx, esophagus, mouth, and bladder. Smokeless tobacco and cigars also have deadly consequences, including lung, larynx, esophageal, and mouth cancer. The risk of developing lung cancer is 10 times greater for smokers than for nonsmokers.

*EAT A HIGH FIBER DIET. Eat at least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables every day. Eat a diet rich in complex carbohydrates (fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes). Whole grains and legumes are high in fiber and include whole grain breads, pasta, rice, and cereals. Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber. Fiber moves food through the digestive track quickly taking toxins with it.

*DRINK WATER. Drink lots of water, at least 8 glasses a day. Sip slowly throughout the day. Water speeds up metabolism and flushes toxins out of your body.

*DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL. If you must drink, try to limit your intake to one glass a day. Alcoholic beverages contain calories but few nutrients and are harmful when consumed in excess. People who should not drink at all include children and women who are pregnant. Having more than two drinks per day is associated with cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and liver.

*OVEREXPOSURE TO SUNLIGHT. Over-exposure to sunlight increases the risk of skin cancer, especially if you have fair skin or freckle easily. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States. However, a little bit of sunlight can be very good for you if you use sunscreen and limit your exposure. Protective clothing, such as a hat and long sleeves, can help block out the sun's harmful rays.

*AVOID STRESS. Stress has been linked to many illnesses and no wonder. Today's lifestyles are full of deadlines and a balancing act of trying to do everything as quickly as possible. If you lead a stressful life, find ways to de-stress every day. Take a hot bath, go for a long, leisurely walk with a friend, read a good book, listen to relaxing music, or do whatever works for you.

*AVOID TAKING SOME HORMONES. Women who are taking hormones (either estrogen or oral contraceptives) should talk to their doctors about the risks associated with them. Estrogen has been linked to higher than average rates of uterine cancer and oral contraceptives have been linked to cervical cancer.

*SEE YOUR DOCTOR every year for preventive care. Routine preventive tests save thousands of lives every year. Routine screenings allow physicians to intervene early with treatments and therapies.

Following the guidelines listed above can help you reduce your risk of being diagnosed with certain types of cancer. It can also help reduce your risk of other diseases and conditions and increase your chances of living a healthier life.