Many cancer deaths in the U.S. could be prevented with lifestyle changes

Nearly 50% of new cancer cases among adults in the United States could be prevented by lifestyle changes.

In a study published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, investigators analyzed the incidence and mortality rates of 30 cancer types in U.S. adults aged 30 years and older in 2019. They identified cancer cases and cancer-related deaths that were attributable to modifiable risk factors, including smoking; second-hand smoke; alcohol consumption; excess body weight; red and processed meat consumption; low consumption of fruits, vegetables, dietary fiber and dietary calcium; physical inactivity; ultraviolet radiation exposure and carcinogenic infections.

The investigators found that 40% of new cancer cases were potentially caused by preventable risk factors. Smoking was the leading risk factor, contributing to nearly 20% of the cases and nearly 33% of cancer-related deaths.

The investigators hope their findings inform more effective strategies to prevent and manage cancer.

Read more: CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians

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