Dr. Betty Kamen, Ph.D.

Table Talk Health Hints

Nutrition Hints

from Betty Kamen, PhD, and Dr. Michael Rosenbaum, MD
Copyright © 2000-2005 by Nutrition Encounter, all rights reserved
May be redistributed only with full attribution
and a link to www.bettykamen.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hint 2023: At least one-third of cancer deaths may be preventable

Unfortunately, advances in cancer treatment have not been as effective as those for other chronic diseases. Part of the reason is that effective screening methods are available for only a few types of cancer.

More than one-third of cancer deaths are attributable to nine modifiable risk factors. Primary prevention through lifestyle and environmental interventions are the main way to reduce the main burden of cancer.

The leading risk factors for death from cancer worldwide and in low- and middle-income countries are:

smoking
alcohol use
low consumption of fruits and vegetables

For women in low- and middle-income countries, sexual transmission of human papilloma virus (HPV) is also a leading risk factor for cervical cancer. Smoking, alcohol use, and overweight and obesity are the most important causes of cancer in high-income countries.

Reduction of exposure to key behavioral and environmental risk factors would prevent a substantial proportion of deaths from cancer.

Source: Lancet 2005;366:1784-1793.