Daily Times

In the world of healthcare, cancer remains one of the most daunting adversaries, known for its complex nature, high mortality rate, and severe impact on individuals and societies. Characterized by the rapid and uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, cancer manifests in various forms—each unique in symptoms, progression, and severity.

The disease’s pervasive nature means that nearly every organ in the body can be affected, with signs ranging from fatigue and weight loss to skin changes, unusual bleeding, and persistent pain. While treatments have advanced significantly, our understanding of cancer’s origins underscores a sobering truth: much of what predisposes people to cancer may be woven into the very fabric of lifestyle and environmental factors.

Central to these risk factors is diet and nutrition. The growing evidence surrounding the link between what we consume and our susceptibility to cancer has prompted health authorities worldwide to rethink dietary guidelines. As Asim Javed, the director general of Punjab Food Authority (PFA), recently stressed, “A nutritious diet is not just a lifestyle choice, it is a strategic decision in cancer prevention. We are seeing more and more evidence of how dietary habits can mitigate, or exacerbate, cancer risks.”

Globally, cancer rates continue to climb. The World Health Organization (WHO) projects that by 2025, new cases will reach nearly 19.3 million, with 10 million additional lives lost to this disease each year. The demand for strategies that not only treat but prevent cancer has never been more critical. In Pakistan, the cancer burden is particularly alarming: with GLOBOCAN 2020 statistics revealing over 178,000 new cancer cases and 117,000 cancer-related deaths annually. The cumulative toll of cancer over the past five years amounts to a staggering 329,547 cases.

In a nation where access to healthcare is uneven and cancer treatments are prohibitively expensive for many, the significance of prevention cannot be overstated. Poor nutrition, compounded by high consumption of junk foods and harmful substances like gutka and paan [both a type of smokeless tobacco], further elevates the risk of cancer in Pakistan. A 2018 national nutrition survey highlighted widespread deficiencies in crucial nutrients—vitamin D, vitamin A, zinc, and iron—all of which play a role in maintaining cellular health and potentially warding off cancer.

“The food choices we make daily are not isolated decisions; they accumulate into life-changing health outcomes,” Asim Javed points out. “As an organization, we are committed to addressing these issues head-on by promoting healthy eating habits, regulating food quality, and educating the public on the link between diet and chronic illnesses, especially cancer.”

Diets rich in ultra-processed foods, high sugar, unhealthy fats, and red or processed meats have been linked to a heightened risk of several cancer types. Conversely, diets centered on plant-based foods and lean proteins can offer a protective effect. This is because plant-based foods contain various bioactive compounds known as phytochemicals, which have shown potential cancer-protective properties.

For example:

• Lycopene, found in tomatoes, grapefruit, and watermelon, is linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer.

• Anthocyanins, present in berries, grapes, and plums, are powerful antioxidants that protect cells from damage.

• Carotenoids (like alpha and beta-carotene in carrots and pumpkins) play a role in immune function, which is critical in identifying and combating abnormal cells.

• Sulforaphanes and indoles in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower have been shown to inhibit tumor growth.

These phytochemicals may influence cancer development at multiple stages, from protecting DNA integrity to reducing inflammation and enhancing the body’s detoxification systems. Although the exact mechanisms are still being studied, the patterns are clear: a diet filled with nutrient-dense, plant-based foods appears to be a formidable ally in cancer prevention.

For those already diagnosed with cancer, nutrition continues to play an indispensable role—not only in supporting general health but also in minimizing the adverse effects of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. These treatments, while targeting cancer cells, often compromise the body’s overall strength, leading to side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and weakened immune responses.

A well-tailored diet can alleviate some of these symptoms and enhance patients’ resilience to treatment. For instance, bland, high-protein foods like yogurt, cottage cheese, and poached eggs may be easier to consume before and after chemotherapy sessions. Patients are encouraged to avoid acidic or spicy foods, which can irritate the digestive tract, and to stay hydrated with non-acidic juices and herbal teas that soothe the stomach.

During chemotherapy, small meals spread throughout the day rather than three large meals can help patients manage their appetite, while cold foods may offer relief to those experiencing heightened sensitivity to smells. Maintaining hydration is crucial, as fluids aid in flushing out treatment byproducts and preventing dehydration—a common issue during intensive cancer therapies.