LIVE with Kelly and Mark: Hidden Cancer Dangers & Simple Fixes

LIVE with Kelly and Mark: Dr. Amar Rewari Discusses Hidden Cancer Risks in Everyday Habits

In a recent appearance for the "LIVE with Kelly and Mark" series, Dr. Amar Rewari, Chief of Radiation Oncology at Luminis Health, joined Kelly and Mark on ABC to discuss a surprising topic: the hidden cancer dangers lurking in our daily routines.

While the topic sounds alarming, Dr. Rewari emphasized that the goal is not to live in fear. "These are all normal things we all do, myself included," he assured viewers. Instead, the conversation focused on awareness and making small, manageable adjustments to lower risks over time.

Key Takeaways from the Interview:

• Hot Beverages: While many of us love a piping hot coffee, Dr. Rewari explained that chronic thermal injury to the esophagus can lead to squamous cell carcinoma.
  
  

  • The Fix: Let your drink cool down slightly before taking a sip—listen to your body if you feel a "burn."
    
    

• Oral Irritations & Hygiene: Chronic rubbing from ill-fitting dentures, chipped teeth, or nervous habits (like chewing your cheek) can cause DNA damage leading to oral cavity cancers. Poor hygiene can also lead to bacteria interactions that form carcinogenic substances.
  
  

  • The Fix: maintain good oral hygiene and use mouthguards if you stress-chew at night.
    
    

• Sleep Patterns: It isn’t just about feeling rested; sleep is when your body repairs DNA damage. Lack of sleep can be a stressor associated with breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers.
  
  

  • The Fix: Aim for 7–9 hours, keep the room cool, and avoid blue light before bed.
    
    

• Home Air Quality: The discussion covered "third-hand smoke" (particles clinging to upholstery), as well as chemicals released by gas stoves and heavily scented candles.
  
  

  • The Fix: Trim candle wicks to reduce soot, use organic options like beeswax, and ensure proper ventilation when cooking.

Watch the full segment below to hear Dr. Rewari’s full breakdown and more "simple fixes" for a healthier year.

For more insights, be sure to check out Dr. Rewari’s podcast, Value Health Voices, available wherever you get your podcasts.