Healthy Living Choices Reduce Cancer Risk in Millions

By Staff Reporter - 27 Dec '14 04:43AM

Healthy living could have prevented 600,000 cancer cases in the last five years  in the United kingdom, says a report.

The Cancer Research UK's report says that  four out of 10 cancer cases could have been averted with lifestyle changes.  Smoking, alcohol,  unhealthy diet, obesity and excessive exposure to sun are some of the causes of avoidable cancer occurrences.

Giving up tobacco would have led to  more than 314,000 fewer cases since 2009.

A balanced diet low in red meat and richer in vegetables would have reduced cancer cases by a further 145,000.

A healthy weight and exercise could have prevented an additional  88,000 cases, while thousands more were linked to excess alcohol and failing to protect skin from the sun.

"There's now little doubt that certain lifestyle choices can have a big impact on cancer risk with research around the world all pointing to the same key risk factors," said Professor Max Parkin, from Queen Mary, University of London, who provided the statistical evidence for the report.

"Of course everyone enjoys some extra treats during the Christmas holidays so we don't want to ban mince pies and wine, but it's a good time to think about taking up some healthy habits for 2015."

Professor Linda Bauld, a cancer research expert clarified that there are more than 200 types of cancer , which our caused by our genes and lifestyle and other varied factors. She emphasized that there is no guarantee against cancer but making better lifestyle choices do up the odds in one's favour .

"There are proven ways to minimise our risk of cancer, like giving up smoking, being more active, drinking less alcohol and maintaining a healthy weight. We must make sure the public and the policy-makers know the evidence behind the benefits of these lifestyle changes is solid," she said.

The experts warn that cancer is an ongoing problem and needs relentless efforts by the government, caregivers and the society to see  a concerted effort in its prevention through proper investment, research, diagnosis and treatment .

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