A groundbreaking study by the American Cancer Society reveals that approximately 40% of new cancer cases among adults aged 30 and older in the United States, and nearly half of all cancer deaths, could be prevented through lifestyle changes. This research underscores the significant impact that modifiable risk factors have on cancer incidence and mortality, highlighting the potential for prevention through healthier living.
Modifiable Risk Factors and Their Impact
The study identified 18 modifiable risk factors across 30 types of cancer, finding that in 2019, these factors were linked to over 700,000 new cancer cases and more than 262,000 deaths. Smoking emerged as the leading risk factor, responsible for nearly one in five cancer cases and almost a third of cancer deaths. Other significant risk factors included excess body weight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, poor diet, and infections such as HPV.
Understanding How Cancer Develops
Cancer arises when DNA damage occurs or when there is a fuel source that promotes the growth of abnormal cells. While genetics and environmental factors can contribute to these conditions, the study emphasizes that modifiable risk factors play a more substantial role. For instance, prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage DNA and lead to skin cancer, while fat cells can produce hormones that feed certain cancers.
Control and Prevention
Dr Arif Kamal, chief patient officer with the American Cancer Society, emphasized the importance of individual control in cancer prevention. He noted that while people often attribute cancer to bad luck or genetics, they should recognize their ability to influence their cancer risk through lifestyle changes.
Also Read: Health Trends That Are Defining The Year 2024
Preventability of Different Cancer Types
The study indicates that certain cancers are more preventable than others. Modifiable risk factors accounted for more than half of new cases in 19 of the 30 cancer types evaluated. For example, over 90% of melanoma cases were linked to ultraviolet radiation, and nearly all cervical cancer cases were associated with HPV infection, which can be prevented with a vaccine.
Significant Findings in Lung and Obesity-Related Cancers
Lung cancer had the highest number of cases attributable to modifiable risk factors, with the majority linked to smoking. After smoking, excess body weight was the second largest contributor to cancer cases, linked to about 5% of new cases in men and nearly 11% in women. It was also associated with more than a third of deaths from cancers of the endometrium, gallbladder, oesophagus, liver, and kidney.
The Role of Medications and Behavioral Changes
Recent studies have shown that certain weight-loss and diabetes medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, can significantly reduce the risk of certain cancers. Dr. Marcus Plescia, chief medical officer for the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, emphasized that obesity is becoming as potent a risk factor for cancer as smoking. He advocates for interventions targeting core behavioural risk factors—quitting smoking, eating well, and exercising—which can dramatically reduce the rates and outcomes of chronic diseases, including cancer.
Creating Supportive Environments
Policymakers and health officials play a crucial role in creating environments that make healthy choices easier for people. This is particularly important in disadvantaged neighbourhoods where safety and access to healthy food are concerns. By fostering such environments, the incidence of cancer and other chronic diseases can be significantly reduced.
Also Read: Health Minister Releases Guidelines To Delhi Hospitals Amid Spike In Dengue Cases
The Importance of Early and Sustained Healthy Habits
As rates of early-onset cancer rise in the US, experts stress the importance of establishing healthy habits early in life. While it is more challenging to quit smoking or lose weight later in life, it is never too late to make changes that can have a profound impact on health. Dr. Kamal notes that reducing exposure to risk factors can quickly lower cancer risk, as the body continuously fights potential cancerous changes in cells.
Bottomline
The findings of this study highlight the critical role of lifestyle changes in cancer prevention. By addressing modifiable risk factors, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer and improve their overall health. This research underscores the power of prevention and the importance of taking proactive steps to lead a healthier life.