Adhering to lifestyle recommendations from the World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer, according to a recent study.
Evidence continues to mount that modifiable lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, play a crucial role in mitigating the risk of cancer. A new study published in Biomed Central reveals that individuals who follow the lifestyle recommendations set forth by the World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research have a lower risk of developing all types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and ovarian cancers. While the study’s observational nature prevents establishing a direct causal relationship, the findings underscore the importance of lifestyle choices in cancer prevention.
How do lifestyle choices affect cancer?
For each recommendation, including exercise, limiting sugary beverages, and maintaining a healthy weight, researchers created a simple scoring system. Participants were awarded points based on their adherence to these recommendations. The study utilized data from the UK Biobank, a health study with over half a million participants. The findings revealed that for each point increase in adherence, the risk of developing cancer decreased by 7%. Site-specific cancers, such as breast and colorectal cancer, showed even more significant risk reductions, with a 10% decrease for each point increase. Other cancers, including kidney, ovarian, esophageal, and gallbladder cancer, also exhibited substantial improvements.
Can a healthy lifestyle prevent cancer?
The study’s results highlight the significant impact of lifestyle changes on cancer risk reduction. Participants with the highest levels of adherence to the recommendations had a 16% lower risk of developing any type of cancer compared to those with the lowest adherence. The risk reduction was even more pronounced for site-specific cancers, with reductions ranging from 18% to 43%. These findings provide encouraging evidence that promoting and adhering to recommended lifestyle changes can be protective against cancer.
What are the lifestyle factors for cancer prevention?
The World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research updated their recommendations in 2018, emphasizing the following factors for cancer prevention:
1. Maintaining a healthy weight
2. Being physically active
3. Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
4. Limiting consumption of processed foods, red meat, and sugar
5. Avoiding sugary beverages
6. Limiting alcohol consumption
7. Not relying on supplements to prevent cancer
8. Encouraging breastfeeding for those who give birth
The updated recommendations removed the previous suggestion to “eat less salt” due to inconclusive evidence and added the specific recommendation to limit sugar from beverages. While following all the recommendations is ideal, even making improvements in one or two areas can make a significant difference in cancer prevention.
Taking manageable steps towards a healthier lifestyle
Experts emphasize the importance of making lifestyle changes manageable and positive. Instead of overwhelming oneself with the need to change multiple aspects of life and diet, focusing on one or two recommendations at a time can be more effective. Incremental or sequential changes can help individuals gradually adopt healthier habits. The key is to start somewhere and build upon those changes over time.
Conclusion: The latest research provides further evidence that lifestyle choices have a profound impact on cancer risk reduction. By adhering to the lifestyle recommendations set forth by the World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research, individuals can significantly lower their risk of developing various types of cancer. While complete adherence is ideal, even small improvements in diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors can make a substantial difference. The findings underscore the importance of taking proactive steps towards a healthier lifestyle to prevent cancer and promote overall well-being.
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