Posted 3 days ago
Reducing Cancer Risk Through Nutrition and Lifestyle: Insights from Dr. Chad Cherington
Cancer is one of the most feared diagnoses in modern medicine, but what if you could reduce your risk through simple, sustainable changes in our daily lives? Dr. Chad Cherington, a hematologist and oncologist at Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers, believes you can—and he’s on a mission to spread the word. He recently was a DEBX Speaker and shared his knowledge.
A Personal and Professional Mission
Dr. Cherington’s passion for cancer prevention is deeply personal. After losing both his sister and a close friend to cancer at young ages, he became determined to challenge the status quo in oncology. His journey led him to explore the powerful connection between lifestyle choices—especially diet—and cancer risk.
The Power of Prevention
According to Dr. Cherington, up to 70–90% of cancer risk is linked to environmental factors, with diet playing a central role. While genetics account for only a small percentage of cancer cases, what we eat, how we move, and how we manage stress can significantly influence our long-term health.
Why a Plant-Based Diet?
Dr. Cherington advocates for a whole-food, plant-based diet. Drawing from research like The China Study and the work of Dr. Michael Greger, he emphasizes that plant-based foods are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals that help the body fight inflammation and oxidative stress—two key contributors to cancer development.
He also points out that many chemotherapy drugs are derived from plant compounds, reinforcing the idea that plants hold powerful healing properties.
Integrating Nutrition into Oncology
At Ironwood Cancer Center, Dr. Cherington doesn’t just talk about nutrition—he integrates it into his practice. Patients receive guidance from registered dietitians, and many have seen improved outcomes by adopting healthier eating habits.
Beyond Diet: A Holistic Approach
While nutrition is foundational, Dr. Cherington also highlights the importance of:
Regular physical activity
Stress management techniques like meditation and yoga
Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol
Getting regular screenings These lifestyle changes, when combined, create a powerful defense against cancer and other chronic diseases.
A Message of Hope
Dr. Cherington’s message is clear: cancer prevention is within our control. By making informed, intentional choices about what we eat and how we live, we can dramatically reduce our risk and empower ourselves toward better health.