As UV Safety and Skin Cancer Awareness Month concludes, RUGGED Mind and Body continues to share education, resources and practical strategies from trusted health organizations to help trades professionals protect their long-term health.

While protecting your skin from the sun is an important way to reduce your risk of skin cancer, there are other healthy habits that can lower your risk of developing many types of cancer. For those working in the trades, maintaining your health is essential to staying productive, supporting your family and continuing the work you enjoy.

Avoid Tobacco Products

Tobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of cancer and cancer-related death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tobacco use increases the risk of cancers affecting the lungs, mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, kidney, pancreas, colon and several other organs.* Quitting tobacco, or never starting, is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your long-term health.

Benefits of quitting begin almost immediately and continue over time, including:

  • Lower risk of developing multiple types of cancer

  • Improved heart and lung health

  • Better circulation and overall physical endurance

  • Reduced exposure of family members to secondhand smoke

No matter how long you have used tobacco, quitting can provide meaningful health benefits.

Stay Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight

The physical demands of many trade professions provide movement throughout the day, but staying active outside of work and maintaining a healthy body weight also play an important role in cancer prevention.

According to the National Cancer Institute, excess body weight and physical inactivity are associated with an increased risk of several cancers, including colorectal, breast, kidney, liver and pancreatic cancers.**

Simple habits that support long-term health include:

  • Staying physically active on a regular basis

  • Eating balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins

  • Limiting highly processed foods and sugary beverages

  • Maintaining a healthy weight over time

Healthy lifestyle habits not only reduce cancer risk but also support energy levels, mobility and overall well-being throughout your career.

Stay Up to Date on Screenings and Vaccinations

Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to detect cancer early or prevent certain cancers altogether. According to the CDC, following age-appropriate cancer screening guidelines and staying current on recommended vaccinations are important steps in cancer prevention.***

Depending on your age, health history and individual risk factors, your healthcare provider may recommend:

  • Colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 45 for adults at average risk.

  • Discussing prostate cancer screening, particularly for men ages 55 to 69 or those at higher risk.

  • Regular skin examinations if you have years of significant sun exposure or a history of skin cancer.

  • Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations, including HPV vaccination for eligible individuals.

 Routine preventive care can identify health concerns before symptoms develop, allowing for earlier treatment and better outcomes.

Taking care of your health is one of the best investments you can make for your future. Healthy daily habits, regular preventive care and informed choices can help reduce your cancer risk and support a long, active life.

Interested in learning more? Connect in two ways to stay informed on trade-focused mental health and wellness content:

  • Subscribe to PHC News magazine for quarterly print and digital issues

  • Sign up for the monthly RUGGED Mind and Body e-newsletter


*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/cancer.html

**National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/obesity

***Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prevention/screening.html