When facing down a cancer diagnosis, patients often ask what can help their odds. Doctors say that going back to basics could make a difference.

When hit with a cancer diagnosis, patients naturally scramble for ways to improve their chances. Surprisingly, doctors are pointing to simple, foundational habits—like better sleep, nutrition, and stress management—as potential game-changers. New data suggests these basics might boost survival odds or treatment response, a reminder that cutting-edge medicine isn’t the only tool in the fight.