IMBIOSCIENCES RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Cancer comprises a broad group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation, which ultimately results in the formation of malignant tumours that tend to metastasize. The global affliction of cancer is concerning, in 2020, an estimated 19.3 million new cases were diagnosed, with nearly 10 million cancer-related deaths. World-wide, in 2020, the most common cancer types diagnosed were those of the breast (2.3 million cases), followed by lung (2.2 million cases), colorectum (1.9 million cases), prostate (1.4 million cases) and stomach (1.1 million cases).

Identifying the risk factors and causes of cancer provides a strong basis to institute cancer preventative approaches. Cancer prevention encompass primary, secondary and tertiary preventative measures. Primary prevention is centered on averting the development of cancer through avoiding or reducing exposure to carcinogenic elements. In this regard, various lifestyle and environmental-related risk factors can be modified; nevertheless, factors such as inherited genetic mutations, cannot be controlled.

The main risk factors and associated primary preventative strategies include:

1.Unhealthy diet, obesity and lack of physical activity – A strong correlation exists between diet, weight and physical activity. Notably, the link between diet and cancer incidence differs according to sex and the cancer type. Nevertheless, a higher intake of fruit and vegetables (preferably 600g/day intake for adults) and exercising regularly (at least 2-3 hours of moderate intensity per week) reduces the cancer risk.

2. Excessive alcohol use – Reduced or zero alcohol consumption significantly decreases cancer risk.

3. Tobacco use – Tobacco is a leading contributor to cancer-related deaths. Avoiding or eliminating tobacco use reduces the risk of developing cancer significantly.

4. Certain infections [such as those caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) or hepatitis virus] – Infection by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is readily preventable by immunization; while HPV can be prevented through screening and treatment of pre-cancerous lesions, although infection prevention is possible by vaccination as well.

5. Environmental pollutants – strong emphasis should be placed on improvements in regulatory controls of vehicle exhaust and industrial combustion products; including workplace regulation controls to reduce cancer risk.

6. Over-exposure to UV radiation – Excessive exposure to UV radiation from sunlight or sunbeds damages the DNA in the skin and could lead to skin cancer. Protecting the skin against UV radiation with broad-spectrum sunscreens, wearing protective clothing, hats and eyewear, reduces the risk of developing skin cancer significantly. 

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