According to a recent study conducted by the American Cancer Society, approximately 40% of new cancer cases in adults aged 30 and older, as well as nearly half of all cancer-related deaths in the United States, can be attributed to preventable risk factors. The study's findings emphasize the importance of adopting healthy lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of developing cancer.

Leading the list of preventable risk factors is smoking, which accounts for almost one in five cancer cases and nearly a third of cancer-related deaths. The study also identified other significant risk factors, including excess body weight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, diet, and infections such as HPV. In total, researchers analyzed 18 modifiable risk factors across 30 types of cancer and found that in 2019 alone, these lifestyle factors were responsible for over 700,000 new cancer cases and more than 262,000 deaths.

Dr. Arif Kamal, the chief patient officer with the American Cancer Society, emphasized that individuals have the ability to make practical changes in their daily lives to reduce their cancer risk. While genetic and environmental factors can play a role, modifiable risks explain a significantly larger proportion of cancer cases and deaths.

The study highlighted that some cancers are more preventable than others. Modifiable risk factors accounted for over half of new cases in 19 out of the 30 types of cancer examined. In fact, there were ten types of cancer where at least 80% of new cases could be attributed to modifiable risk factors. For example, over 90% of melanoma cases were linked to ultraviolet radiation exposure, while nearly all cases of cervical cancer were associated with HPV infection, which can be prevented through vaccination.

Among both men and women, lung cancer had the highest number of cases attributable to modifiable risk factors, with smoking being the predominant factor. Excess body weight ranked as the second largest contributor to cancer cases, particularly in cancers of the endometrium, gallbladder, esophagus, liver, and kidney.

The study's findings highlight the urgent need for preventive measures, especially considering the rising rates of early-onset cancer in the US. Experts emphasize the importance of creating healthy habits early in life, as it becomes more challenging to quit smoking or lose weight once habits have formed. However, it's never too late to make lifestyle changes, as even interventions later in life can have a significant impact.

In response to the study, Dr. Marcus Plescia, the chief medical officer for the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, stressed the importance of policymakers and health officials creating environments where it is easier for people to make healthy choices. This is particularly crucial for individuals living in historically disadvantaged neighborhoods, where access to safe exercise spaces and nutritious food options may be limited.

Experts also note that making lifestyle changes to minimize exposure to certain risk factors can significantly reduce cancer risk in a relatively short period. Cancer is a constant risk that the body fights every day as cells divide. Therefore, reducing these risks can benefit individuals on a daily basis.

Ultimately, this study serves as a call to action for individuals to take control of their health by adopting healthier lifestyles and for policymakers to create and promote environments that support these changes. By addressing preventable risk factors, significant progress can be made in reducing the burden of cancer in the United States.