Cancer Research and Therapy

Cancer: Lifestyle Connection and Nutrition

Many factors influence the development of cancer. Over the last 25 years, science has shown that diet, physical activity, and body weight especially being overweight or obese—are major risk factors for developing certain types of cancer. Around a third of the most common cancers could be prevented through lifestyle changes. The main behavioural and environmental risk factors for cancer mortality in the world are related to diet and physical inactivity, use of addictive substances, sexual and reproductive health and exposure to air pollution and use of contaminated needles. The body’s ability to resist cancer may be helped by following a healthy diet, staying physically active, and avoiding excess body fat.  Cancer and cancer treatments can also affect your body's ability to tolerate certain foods and use nutrients.