Preventing cancer
It may surprise you to learn that at least one in three cancer cases are preventable and the number of cancer deaths could be reduced significantly by choosing a cancer smart lifestyle.
More than 13,000 cancer deaths each year are due to smoking, sun exposure, poor diet, alcohol, inadequate exercise or being overweight.
There are some simple steps you can take to minimise your cancer risk. So where do you start? The seven steps to reducing your cancer risk are explained in the Cancer Council's cancer prevention lifestyle fact sheets.
For a more detailed analysis of cancer prevention please view the National Cancer Prevention Policy. The policy is a comprehensive set of recommendations, outlining how national action by governments and non-government organisations can reduce new cases of cancer from occurring.
Sun safety:
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. In 2011, more than 2000 Australians died from this almost entirely preventable disease.
Fortunately, being SunSmart is a simple and effective way to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Cancer Council provides guidance on how much sun you need and how to protect yourself from getting too much sun exposure. We also offer a range of high quality, affordable sun protection products to help keep you safe from the sun's damaging UV ray..
Smoking and tobacco:
Tobacco smoking is the largest preventable cause of cancer, responsible for more cancer deaths in Australia than any other single factor. It is also directly responsible for many heart and lung diseases. Smoking affects the smoker, as well as those around them.
Here you will find information on the effects of smoking, help with stopping smoking and details of Cancer Council’s work to reduce the harm caused by tobacco
Early detection:
Some cancers can be detected at an early stage when treatment is likely to be more effective. Tests have been developed that can detect these cancers well before any symptoms are present.
Tests are currently available through national population-based screening programs for breast cancer, cervical cancer and bowel cancer. These tests are provided free of charge for people who are eligible.
It is also a good idea to get to know your own body. If you notice any changes, such as a lump in your breast or a spot growing on your skin, see your doctor.
The information contained in this section should not be used for individual medical advice. Please see your doctor if you have concerns or specific questions relating to your health.
Nutrition and physical activity:
Evidence shows that being overweight, having a poor diet, drinking alcohol and doing little or no exercise all increase your risk of developing certain cancers.
Poor nutrition and lack of physical activity also cause type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, arthritis and falls, accounting for nearly 20% of all disease and injury in Australia today.
Reduce your risk:
One third of cancer deaths in Australia are caused by preventable risk factors such as smoking, limited physical activity, poor diet, sun exposure or not taking part in screening programs.
There are seven simple steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk. Read more in our fact sheets:
Quit smoking
Eat for health
Maintain a healthy weight
Be SunSmart
Limit alcohol
Move your body
Get checked - men
Get checked - women
If you need more information or would like to talk to someone please call Cancer Council 13 11 20 (local call cost anywhere in Australia).
Disclaimer: The information contained in these fact sheets is not a substitute for, and is not intended to replace, independent professional advice. Users should consider the need to obtain any appropriate professional advice relevant to their own particular circumstances.
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