Lifestyle at fault for 40% of cancers

More than four in 10 cancers can be prevented by making lifestyle changes, according to the Irish Cancer Society who has urged the public to consider their health when making their new year’s resolutions.

A paper on cancer projections for Ireland 2015–2040, published by the National Cancer Registry of Ireland, has found that 40% of cancer risk has been attributed to five lifestyle factors — tobacco, diet, overweight/obesity, alcohol and low physical activity.

“The number one thing people can do to improve their health and lower their risk of cancer is to quit smoking,” said Kevin O’Hagan, cancer prevention manager at the Irish Cancer Society.