1. Understand Ethnic Risk Factors
While no known lifestyle modifications can help you prevent or avoid Kaposi's sarcoma with any degree of certainty, it helps if you know whether or not you're at increased risk for developing this rare form of cancer. People--primarily men--of certain ethnic origins have a heightened likelihood of getting KS. Those of Eastern European Jewish origin or from the Mediterranean region or equatorial Africa have much higher incidence rates than the general population. While KS has historically been a male-dominated disease, the number of cases in women has risen in recent years. The classic form of the disease once affected 1 woman per every 20 cases in men. That ratio is now down to about 1 in 4.
2. Avoid HIV Infection
HIV and AIDS patients have a far greater incidence rate of Kaposi's sarcoma than the general population. In fact, there's a unique variant of the disease that occurs only in AIDS sufferers, characterized by the appearance of lesions on just about any part of the body, including the face. Practice safer sex, don't share needles to use intravenous drugs and get checked for HIV infection regularly if you're sexually active. If you do have HIV or AIDS, you can reduce your chances of getting Kaposi's sarcoma by sticking closely to a regimen of antiretroviral drugs.
3. Promote a Healthy Immune System
Kaposi's sarcoma is caused by a strain of the herpes virus known as human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). While it's not known precisely how to avoid or prevent HHV-8 infection, you can help by making sure your immune system is healthy and functioning at peak levels. That way, even if you get HHV-8, you'll stop the virus from gaining a strong foothold in your body and possibly prevent the development of KS. The easiest way to promote immune system health is to eat a diet rich in antioxidants. Beta-carotene and vitamins A, C and E all give your immune system a boost. As with HIV/AIDS patients, organ transplant patients are at much higher risk than the general population for getting KS, because the transplantation procedure has severely weakening effects on your immune system. You should talk to your doctor about KS risk if you need an organ transplant.
