Heather A. Parsons, MD, MPH, discusses how family history, genetics, and lifestyle factors like smoking and obesity can influence cancer risk in young people. Learn why early detection and healthy habits matter. Learn more about Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: https://www.dana-farber.org/

William Pirl, MD, MPH, explains how anxiety and stress can lead to behaviors like smoking, drinking, and poor diet, which increase cancer risk. Managing stress can support healthier habits and potentially lower cancer risk by promoting overall well-being. Learn more about Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: https://www.dana-farber.org/

Elizabeth Buchbinder, MD, explains how skin color influences melanoma risk. While individuals with lighter skin tones have a higher risk of cutaneous melanoma, those with darker skin tones are still at risk, particularly for melanomas on the hands, feet, or mucous membranes. These melanomas are often harder to detect, more aggressive, and diagnosed later, making early detection crucial. Watching for changes in moles, itching, bleeding, or growth is essential for everyone, regardless of skin color. Want to learn more about skin cancer risk, screening and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/cutaneous-skin-cancer

Dana-Farber's Tim Rebbeck, PhD, discusses PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," and their link to cancer. Research shows that PFAS exposure is associated with kidney and testicular cancers due to DNA damage and immune system changes. While PFAS exposure often comes from drinking water, the best way to reduce overall cancer risk is by avoiding or quitting smoking, limiting processed foods and alcohol, and maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle where possible. Learn more about Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: https://www.dana-farber.org/

Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, explains why supplements are not recommended for cancer prevention. Research indicates that whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are more effective in promoting overall health and lowering cancer risk. A balanced diet featuring fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based foods plays a key role in reducing cancer risk. Discover more about integrative therapies and healthy living at Dana-Farber: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/support-services/integrative-therapies

Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains the link between food additives and cancer risk. Certain additives, such as nitrates and nitrites found in processed meats like bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, have been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Christina highlights how reducing ultra-processed foods and focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help lower cancer risk. Discover more about integrative therapies and healthy living at Dana-Farber: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/support-services/integrative-therapies

Ann LaCasce, MD, oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains what to do if you discover a lump or enlarged lymph node on your body. Learn why consulting a medical professional is crucial for identifying potential causes, such as infections or other conditions, and determining whether further steps like imaging or a biopsy are needed. Want to learn more about early detection and cancer care? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/

What are the risk factors for lung cancer? In this episode of Cancer Questions with Dana-Farber, David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, discusses lung cancer risk factors and highlights why quitting smoking is so important. Want to learn more about lung cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/thoracic-lung-cancer

Why is genetic counseling an important part of genetic testing?   Huma Rana, MD, MPH, physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, emphasizes genetic counselors' vital role in helping patients comprehend the risks of genetic mutations, interpreting results, and more.   Want to learn more about cancer genetics and cancer prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/cancer-prevention-risk 

Does vaping increase your risk of cancer?  David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights the historical patterns seen with cigarette smoking and lung cancer and explains why similar patterns might emerge with vaping.  While it's too early to say definitively, due to the typical 30-year lag between behavioral changes and observed cancer rates, concerns are certainly rising due to potential carcinogens present in vape smoke.  Want to learn more about lung cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/thoracic-lung-cancer 

How do you reduce your cancer risk if you've had a history of sunburns?  Elizabeth Buchbinder, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, emphasizes the importance of paying attention to changes in the skin and using sun protection.  Want to learn more about skin cancer risk, screening and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/cutaneous-skin-cancer   

Are there any screening options for gynecologic cancers?   Susanne Menon, a nurse practitioner at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights various screening methods for gynecological cancers.   Want to learn more about gynecologic cancer screening, risk and prevention of gynecologic cancers? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/gynecologic-oncology   

Does eating a plant-based diet reduce cancer risk?    Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights how integrating plant-based foods into your diet may reduce the risk of certain types of cancers. She shares helpful tips for maintaining a well-balanced diet.   Want to learn more about integrative therapies and healthy living? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/support-services/integrative-therapies    

Does marijuana increase cancer risk?  David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, talks about the latest available data.  Want to learn more about lung cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/thoracic-lung-cancer   

Do cancers always have a genetic component?  Huma Rana, MD, MPH, physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains how 15% of cancers are linked to inherited mutations. These mutations frequently affect tumor suppressor genes, increasing the risk of cancer development in individuals born with such mutations.   Want to learn more about cancer genetics and cancer prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/cancer-prevention-risk   

Do processed foods cause cancer?  Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights the impact of foods with added sugars, sodium, and artificial ingredients on cancer risk and emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet.   Want to learn more about integrative therapies and healthy living? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/support-services/integrative-therapies 

Can deodorant cause breast cancer?  Tim Rebbeck, PhD, professor of Cancer Prevention at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explores the research and evidence surrounding the components found in deodorants and their link to breast cancer.    Want to learn more about breast cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/types/breast-cancer      

Can vitamin D reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?  Kimmie Ng, MD, MPH, medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, helps answer the common question: Can vitamin D reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?  Clinical trials have not shown that taking a supplement can reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. However, high doses of vitamin D may help to slow the progression of colorectal cancer in diagnosed patients.   Want to learn more from Dana-Farber about colorectal cancer screening, risk, and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/gastrointestinal/programs/colorectal-cancer 

Do birth control pills affect cancer risk?  Wendy Chen, MD, medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights the link between birth control pills and breast cancer, the role of estrogen and progesterone in contraceptives, and the findings of modern studies on their safety.  Want to learn more about breast cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/types/breast-cancer   

How to know if you're at higher risk for skin cancer?  Elizabeth Buchbinder, MD, a senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights risk factors for skin cancer, including family history, skin type, and UV exposure.  Buchbinder emphasizes why individuals with a history of skin cancer in the family or significant UV exposure should consider regular check-ups with a dermatologist and monitor for any changes in their skin.   Want to learn more about skin cancer risk, screening and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/cutaneous-skin-cancer