Up to 70% of some cancers preventable

New research released to coincide with World Cancer Day earlier this month has strengthened the link between lifestyle factors and cancer with findings that up to 70% of certain cancers could be prevented by diet, exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.

It also pinpoints the level of influence body fat has on the risk of developing certain cancers.

Based on United States figures, 70% of cancers of the uterus, 63% of cancers of the mouth and throat and 69% of oesophageal cancers could be prevented by a healthy lifestyle.

An estimated 45% of all bowel cancers, could also be avoidable, while 38% of breast cancers would also be prevented.

Professor David Hill, director of Cancer Council Victoria, said the new research reinforced how important lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity were in preventing cancer.

“Since cancer patterns and lifestyle in the US are quite similar to Australia, the new US estimates are probably quite a good guide for us.

“In general we know that more than a third of all cancers can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle, but this research indicates that for certain cancers the impact of these factors is much, much higher.

“This is good news. People often feel that cancer is just something that happens to you, but this research shows there are effective ways you can decrease your risk of the disease.”