Lifestyle Changes Could Avert 40% of New Cancer Cases

Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or wearing sunblock can prevent up to 40% of new cancer cases in the US, a new study from the American Cancer Society found. And as CNN Health reports, such changes may prevent up to half of all cancer deaths. "These are things that people can practically change how they live every single day to reduce their risk of cancer," said Dr. Arif Kamal, the American Cancer Society's chief patient officer.

• The study: The researchers looked at 30 types of cancer and which risk factors were linked to over 700,000 diagnoses and over 260,000 deaths. Though some cancers were more preventable than others, 19 were greatly attributed to modifiable factors.
• The top three: Smoking was the biggest lifestyle choice that could lead to cancer, and was the main cause for 20% of new cases and 30% of cancer deaths. Excess body weight and alcohol consumption rounded out the top three leading risk factors. Other changeable behaviors or choices on the list include sun exposure, physical activity, diet, and vaccinating against infections that lead to cancer, like HPV virus.
• A sense of control: The American Cancer Society estimated that for the first time, cancer diagnoses would top 2 million in 2024, a number that can make the disease seem pervasive or a matter of bad luck. "People think about bad luck or bad genetics, but people need to feel a sense of control and agency," Kamal told CNN.
• Preventative care: With this new knowledge, the researchers are stressing preventative care, especially at the doctor's office. "In the case of smoking, for example, persons who currently smoke can reduce their health risks by quitting. Health care providers can also provide guidance for quitting," Dr Farhad Islami told EuroNews. They also acknowledge that some habits are hard to change, so early prevention is key.

(Cancer is causing "financial toxicity" in the US.)