When it comes to cancer, the statistics are stark – half of us are predicted to develop the disease in our lifetime. A study this week warned rates of ­melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer, are at an all-time high in the UK and projected to hit 20,800 this year. A staggering 17,000 of those cases are preventable, along with 38 per cent of all cancer cases, according to Cancer Research UK.

Former NHS GP Haroon Hamid, co-founder and lead clinician at wellness and aesthetics clinic Haus of Skin, highlights that the risk of a cancer diagnosis is a combination of environmental, lifestyle, genetic factors, and luck. He emphasizes that there are actionable steps we can take to reduce the chances of cancer by making informed lifestyle choices.

Dr. Hamid advises not to ignore symptoms and encourages seeking medical consultation and appropriate testing if experiencing any concerns. Educating individuals on cancer prevention and management is crucial in combating the disease.

The Mediterranean diet, known for its emphasis on fish, has been hailed as one of the healthiest diets globally, reducing the risk of various diseases. Dr. Hamid points out that populations following a Mediterranean diet, rich in fish and omega-3 fatty acids, have higher rates of longevity. Incorporating fish like salmon, trout, or cod into the diet can be beneficial for overall health.