Can cancer be prevented?

Many people believe that getting cancer is purely down to genes, fate or bad luck. But through scientific research, we know that our risk actually depends on a combination of our genes, our environment and aspects of our lives, many of which we can control.

In the UK, more than one in three people will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Every year, around 309,500 people are diagnosed with the disease.
But experts estimate that more than four in 10 cancer cases could be prevented by lifestyle changes, such as:

• not smoking
• keeping a healthy body weight
• cutting back on alcohol
• eating a healthy, balanced diet
• keeping active
• avoiding certain infections (like HPV)
• staying safe in the sun
• occupation (see chemicals in the workplace)

Some people are more at risk of cancer as a result of chemicals or practices used in their occupation. Improved safety in the workplace means fewer people will be at risk now than in the past.
Thinking of making a change? Jeff, Mark, Maria and Emilie have. See their stories and be inspired.