Many people don’t think they have much control over their risk of cancer.
But did you know that at least 50 percent of cancer deaths could be avoided if people
took the appropriate steps to protect themselves from cancer? By quitting or avoiding
smoking, maintaining a healthy weight through a healthy diet and regular physical
activity, and getting the appropriate early detection tests, Americans can indeed
significantly impact their risk for cancer.
In keeping with our mission to increase prevention and early detection
of cancer, the American Cancer Society is taking steps to raise public awareness
of how lifestyle choices can impact cancer risk through the creation of the Great
American Health Challenge. The challenge, a year-round program, encourages Americans
to make a commitment to take the following actions to reduce their cancer risk,
or detect cancer when it is most treatable:
Check – Find out what cancer screening tests are
appropriate based on your age and family history, and discuss these with your doctor.
Screening can prevent cancer or detect it at its earliest, most treatable stage.
Move – Be physically active most days of the week;
strive for at least 30 minutes of exercise–over and above your usual activities–on
five or more days each week.
Nourish – Aim for a healthy body weight and
eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limit your consumption of red and processed meats.
Quit – Stop smoking, or join the fight against
tobacco as an advocate for smoke-free communities.