Study Links 40% of Cancer Cases to Modifiable Lifestyle Factors

Research highlights smoking, obesity, and poor diet as leading contributors to preventable cancer cases in industrialized nations.

A study by the American Cancer Society finds that 40% of cancers in adults over 30 are linked to modifiable lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and alcohol consumption.
Smoking is identified as the most significant preventable risk factor, with a 20-fold increase in lung cancer risk for smokers compared to non-smokers.
Obesity is strongly tied to several cancers, including breast cancer after menopause, colorectal cancer, and nearly half of uterine and kidney cancer cases.
Other contributing factors include insufficient physical activity, high consumption of processed meats, low intake of fruits, vegetables, and fiber, excessive UV exposure, and certain preventable infections like HPV and Hepatitis B.
Experts urge policymakers to implement measures such as stricter tobacco and alcohol regulations, improved public health campaigns, and wider access to vaccinations to reduce cancer risks.