The newborn HepB vaccine is a long-standing, evidence-based public health recommendation in many countries, and the WHO specifically recommends a birth dose (ideally within 24 hours) because hepatitis B can be transmitted around delivery, and infection acquired in infancy is far more likely to become chronic, which is exactly what drives future cirrhosis and liver cancer risk. The European Code Against Cancer also explicitly supports HBV vaccination as a cancer-prevention measure. Policies do vary by country (and the U.S. has recently shifted to more “shared decision-making” for infants of HBV-negative mothers, while the American Academy of Pediatrics continues to recommend the universal birth dose), but the core prevention logic and the long-term liver cancer benefit are solid.
Yes, my eldest sister (86 now) was infected as a baby because in the 1930’s, they didn’t have the available vaccines that we have now. Older folks who have seen family sicken or die from things proper medical care can prevent or alleviate appreciate the advances in vaccines and medical advice and care. It amazes me to have a lunatic in charge of the department of health and human services!
Thank you Dr. Sara, I am currently going through diagnosis and just had my life saved at the hospital. As a Reiki Master Teacher and life long health food enthusiast I see how stress and environment are equally as important, if not more so, than proper diet and lifestyle habits. I have a strong Spiritual practice, so good, in fact, that I was able to sustain an unhealthy situation for far too long. And now my healing journey really begins...I am back with my grown children in a safe and clean environment, feeling supported and loved...Meat, mostly chicken and turkey is encouraged in my situation as I need protein and iron. Thank you for this series, it is arriving in perfect Divine Right Timing.
Thank you so much for your kind words Ryann, I’m really happy the sources were helpful. I appreciate you being here, and I’m excited to share the next article in the series soon.
Excellent list. I really appreciate how you focus on realistic, life-centered ways of becoming the kind of person who is less likely to get cancer.
Cancer is tricky. As you note, we “only” see about a 27% reduction in risk from following these guidelines, whereas the other two major killers, heart disease and diabetes, are estimated to be 80–90% preventable, based on what I’ve read of the research.
But even if cancer is less in our hands, we still have a responsibility to do our part. I’m curious how you think about this difference between cancer and the other diseases.
Thank you for such a thoughtful comment Rabbi. The 80–90% preventable estimates for heart disease/diabetes often come from models assuming decades of "ideal" risk-factor levels (no smoking, optimal BP/lipids/glucose, healthy body composition, consistent activity and diet), whereas the ~27% lower cancer risk is typically observed in real populations with mixed, imperfect adherence to guideline bundles; add to that that cancer is ore than 200 diseases with diverse drivers plus a larger role for aging and random DNA errors, so the average lifestyle effect may look smaller but they can dramatically lower risk for certain cancers.
Very interesting. If I understand you correctly, lifestyle might affect the major diseases more similarly than the numbers show at first. Thank you for clarifying that!
I hear your concern Jim, and I want to clarify this with respect. A “mostly plant-based” pattern isn’t “terrible advice,” and it’s not about lies or ideology, it’s about the weight of evidence from major cancer-prevention guidelines. Also, “mostly plant-based” does not mean “no meat.” It simply means the foundation of the plate is plant foods (vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, nuts), because that pattern is consistently linked with better metabolic health and a lower risk of several chronic diseases, including some cancers. Meat can still fit — the key is balance, and keeping processed meat very low and red meat more occasional rather than a daily staple.
Our very acidic stomachs and short colons tell us we’re designed for meat consumption - not vegetables. The “limited red meat” narrative is baseless - related perhaps to the saturated fat is bad for you misdirection. I simply must disagree. Thank you for your engagement! Please keep writing.
My intention here is to share what major cancer-prevention guidelines consistently include. Vaccines are part of that list because a meaningful share of cancers are infection-related, and preventing hepatitis B and HPV infections reduces downstream liver and cervical (and other HPV-related) cancers. You’re always in control of your choices, I’m simply giving readers the full, evidence-based map so they can make informed decisions with their own clinician.
Yes, I would like to know how to remove plaque from pineal gland in brain (said to be able to remove so as not to have old brain ) & what gets through the blood brain barrier ??
I’m sorry she’s going through that. Hair loss and joint aches can happen after treatment, especially with hormonal meds. Please have her tell her oncologist, they can evaluate causes (vitamin D/iron/thyroid, etc.) and offer options (med adjustment, pain strategies, PT). A dermatologist can help with hair loss too. And looking ahead: staying consistent with the evidence-based habits in this post can help lower the risk of recurrence and support long-term health, alongside her prescribed treatment and regular follow-ups. Sending you both my warmest wishes.
HepB vaccine for newborns? I can’t take you seriously.
The newborn HepB vaccine is a long-standing, evidence-based public health recommendation in many countries, and the WHO specifically recommends a birth dose (ideally within 24 hours) because hepatitis B can be transmitted around delivery, and infection acquired in infancy is far more likely to become chronic, which is exactly what drives future cirrhosis and liver cancer risk. The European Code Against Cancer also explicitly supports HBV vaccination as a cancer-prevention measure. Policies do vary by country (and the U.S. has recently shifted to more “shared decision-making” for infants of HBV-negative mothers, while the American Academy of Pediatrics continues to recommend the universal birth dose), but the core prevention logic and the long-term liver cancer benefit are solid.
Yes, my eldest sister (86 now) was infected as a baby because in the 1930’s, they didn’t have the available vaccines that we have now. Older folks who have seen family sicken or die from things proper medical care can prevent or alleviate appreciate the advances in vaccines and medical advice and care. It amazes me to have a lunatic in charge of the department of health and human services!
Thank you Dr. Sara, I am currently going through diagnosis and just had my life saved at the hospital. As a Reiki Master Teacher and life long health food enthusiast I see how stress and environment are equally as important, if not more so, than proper diet and lifestyle habits. I have a strong Spiritual practice, so good, in fact, that I was able to sustain an unhealthy situation for far too long. And now my healing journey really begins...I am back with my grown children in a safe and clean environment, feeling supported and loved...Meat, mostly chicken and turkey is encouraged in my situation as I need protein and iron. Thank you for this series, it is arriving in perfect Divine Right Timing.
With Blessings,
Star Bear Medicine Woman
🌹🙏🦢
Dear Star,
I'm sorry to read you were recently diagnosed. Cancer is a topic really close to my heart and I do my best to share all the knowledge we have with you. I'd strongly suggest you to read this post: https://zenithwithin.substack.com/p/how-to-mediterranean-diet-cancer-longevity.
Sending you and your family my very best wishes, Sara
Thanks for this list! I appreciate all the sources you cited. I'll be watching for the next article in the series!
Thank you so much for your kind words Ryann, I’m really happy the sources were helpful. I appreciate you being here, and I’m excited to share the next article in the series soon.
Excellent list. I really appreciate how you focus on realistic, life-centered ways of becoming the kind of person who is less likely to get cancer.
Cancer is tricky. As you note, we “only” see about a 27% reduction in risk from following these guidelines, whereas the other two major killers, heart disease and diabetes, are estimated to be 80–90% preventable, based on what I’ve read of the research.
But even if cancer is less in our hands, we still have a responsibility to do our part. I’m curious how you think about this difference between cancer and the other diseases.
Thank you for such a thoughtful comment Rabbi. The 80–90% preventable estimates for heart disease/diabetes often come from models assuming decades of "ideal" risk-factor levels (no smoking, optimal BP/lipids/glucose, healthy body composition, consistent activity and diet), whereas the ~27% lower cancer risk is typically observed in real populations with mixed, imperfect adherence to guideline bundles; add to that that cancer is ore than 200 diseases with diverse drivers plus a larger role for aging and random DNA errors, so the average lifestyle effect may look smaller but they can dramatically lower risk for certain cancers.
Very interesting. If I understand you correctly, lifestyle might affect the major diseases more similarly than the numbers show at first. Thank you for clarifying that!
there is no need to wait until the new year for better health resolutions!
At 68 I proudly hold awareness and practice of 8 of the 10 that you've listed. 💪🏽🤶🏽
I love this Opeyemi, no need to wait for January 1st! At 68 and doing 8/10 is genuinely impressive, you’re proof that small habits add up! 💪🏽
It’s comforting to see that cancer prevention strategies work as well for the other big 3 diseases!
We don’t need all the tools, just the right ones!
You’re not only preventing cancer, you’re preventing neurodegeneration, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
What about risk due to chronic inflammation?
Well said Dr. Mica. Your question is such interesting, and one I'll cover soon!
Thank you
You're very welcome Laurie.
The “plant based” diet is terrible advice. Eat meat. Don’t fall for the lies.
I hear your concern Jim, and I want to clarify this with respect. A “mostly plant-based” pattern isn’t “terrible advice,” and it’s not about lies or ideology, it’s about the weight of evidence from major cancer-prevention guidelines. Also, “mostly plant-based” does not mean “no meat.” It simply means the foundation of the plate is plant foods (vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, nuts), because that pattern is consistently linked with better metabolic health and a lower risk of several chronic diseases, including some cancers. Meat can still fit — the key is balance, and keeping processed meat very low and red meat more occasional rather than a daily staple.
Our very acidic stomachs and short colons tell us we’re designed for meat consumption - not vegetables. The “limited red meat” narrative is baseless - related perhaps to the saturated fat is bad for you misdirection. I simply must disagree. Thank you for your engagement! Please keep writing.
I was taking this seriously until you started pushing vaccines 🤦♀️. Good grief
My intention here is to share what major cancer-prevention guidelines consistently include. Vaccines are part of that list because a meaningful share of cancers are infection-related, and preventing hepatitis B and HPV infections reduces downstream liver and cervical (and other HPV-related) cancers. You’re always in control of your choices, I’m simply giving readers the full, evidence-based map so they can make informed decisions with their own clinician.
No. 10 🤭 who’s your daddy…
Yes, I would like to know how to remove plaque from pineal gland in brain (said to be able to remove so as not to have old brain ) & what gets through the blood brain barrier ??
Dear Sheryl, I’d recommend seeing a specialist who can evaluate you personally. That way you get guidance that’s safe and tailored to you.
I’m sorry she’s going through that. Hair loss and joint aches can happen after treatment, especially with hormonal meds. Please have her tell her oncologist, they can evaluate causes (vitamin D/iron/thyroid, etc.) and offer options (med adjustment, pain strategies, PT). A dermatologist can help with hair loss too. And looking ahead: staying consistent with the evidence-based habits in this post can help lower the risk of recurrence and support long-term health, alongside her prescribed treatment and regular follow-ups. Sending you both my warmest wishes.