A groundbreaking study by the American Cancer Society unveils compelling evidence that avoiding smoking, excessive drinking, and obesity can drastically reduce cancer risk. According to the research published this week, 40% of new cancer cases and 44% of cancer deaths in adults over 30 could be prevented by eliminating high-risk behaviors such as smoking and drinking.

Experts underscore the significance of this study for public health, urging leaders to promote healthier lifestyles to combat cancer. The study highlights the profound impact of behavior and diet changes, as well as vaccinations for HPV and hepatitis B, in reducing cancer-related infections.

Risk factors contributing to cancer include smoking, second-hand smoke exposure, alcohol consumption, and being overweight. Diets high in red or processed meats and low in fruits, vegetables, dietary fiber, or calcium also increase cancer risk. Additionally, infections from hepatitis B, Epstein-Barr virus, HIV, human papillomavirus, and Kaposi sarcoma herpes virus are significant contributors.

Public health experts, not involved in the study, emphasize the importance of these findings for policy-making. “This is a significant opportunity for our country—and globally—to reduce cancer incidence and mortality through proactive prevention at both personal and societal levels,” said Ernest Hawk, vice president and head of cancer prevention and population sciences at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Hawk stresses that the goal is not to shame individuals but to educate and inform them. “Changing one’s lifestyle is challenging,” Hawk said, “but the aim is to guide people towards healthier behaviors and supportive policies.”

The study estimated that in 2019, 40% of the nearly 1.8 million cancers in adults over 30 were linked to “potentially modifiable risk factors,” examining 30 cancer types and excluding non-melanoma skin cancers.

Key findings from the study include:

• Cigarette smoking is the leading risk factor, responsible for 19.3% of cases.
• Excess body weight accounts for 7.6% of cases.
• Alcohol consumption is linked to 5.4% of cases.
• Ultraviolet radiation causes 4.6% of cases.

Lung cancer showed the highest number of preventable cases, with 104,410 in men and 97,250 in women. Other common preventable cancers included 50,570 cases of skin melanoma and 44,310 colorectal cancers.

Farad Islami, the study’s lead author and senior scientific director of cancer disparity research at the American Cancer Society, noted, “Despite significant declines in smoking prevalence, the number of lung cancer deaths due to smoking in the U.S. remains alarming.” Islami called for stronger tobacco control policies and early lung cancer detection measures.

The study also highlighted the critical role of hepatitis B and HPV vaccinations. Hepatitis B can lead to liver cancer, while HPV is linked to various cancers, including cervical, anal, genital, and oropharyngeal cancers.

Earlier this year, the American Cancer Society projected that U.S. cancer cases would surpass 2 million for the first time. However, thanks to lower smoking rates, early detection, and improved treatments, cancer death rates have declined over the past three decades.

Cancer prevention pharmaceuticals

Cancer prevention pharmaceuticals play a crucial role in reducing the incidence of cancer by targeting specific pathways and risk factors associated with the disease. These drugs include chemopreventive agents like selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and aromatase inhibitors, which are used to prevent breast cancer in high-risk individuals. Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin have been shown to lower the risk of colorectal cancer by reducing inflammation and inhibiting cell proliferation. Vaccines, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and the hepatitis B vaccine, are also essential in preventing cancers caused by viral infections. By addressing genetic predispositions, hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, and infections, cancer prevention pharmaceuticals offer a proactive approach to reducing cancer burden and improving public health outcomes.

National Cancer prevention month

National Cancer Prevention Month, observed every February in the USA, is a vital public health initiative aimed at raising awareness about the importance of cancer prevention and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. During this month, various health organizations, communities, and individuals come together to educate the public on actionable steps to reduce cancer risk. Emphasis is placed on avoiding high-risk behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise. Additionally, National Cancer Prevention Month highlights the significance of vaccinations, such as those for human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, which can prevent certain types of cancer. This month-long observance serves as a reminder that proactive measures, early detection, and informed decisions are essential in the fight against cancer, ultimately aiming to decrease cancer incidence and mortality rates nationwide.

How to prevent cancer in dogs?

Preventing cancer in dogs involves a combination of proper care, diet, and regular veterinary check-ups. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial, as obesity can increase cancer risk. Providing a diet rich in antioxidants and low in artificial preservatives can help bolster their immune system. Avoid exposing your dog to second-hand smoke and limit their exposure to harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides. Regular veterinary check-ups, including routine blood work and physical examinations, are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Vaccinations against cancer-causing viruses, such as the canine papillomavirus, can also be beneficial. Spaying or neutering your dog at an appropriate age may reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly reproductive cancers. By implementing these preventive measures, you can help reduce your dog’s risk of developing cancer and ensure a healthier, happier life for your furry companion.

Preventing skin cancer involves a combination of lifestyle choices and protective measures. Here are ten effective ways to reduce your risk:

1. Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
2. Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses that block UV rays.
3. Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
4. Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that can increase your risk of skin cancer.
5. Perform Regular Skin Checks: Examine your skin monthly for new or changing moles, freckles, or spots, and report any suspicious changes to a healthcare professional.
6. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Healthy Diet: Hydration and a diet rich in antioxidants can help support skin health and repair damage.
7. Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow, and Sand: These surfaces reflect the sun’s rays, increasing the risk of sunburn.
8. Be Mindful of Medications: Some medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for any precautions.
9. Educate Yourself and Others: Raise awareness about the risks of UV exposure and the importance of sun protection.
10. See a Dermatologist Annually: Regular professional skin exams can help detect early signs of skin cancer, improving the chances of successful treatment.

By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.