Cancer Researchers Hail New Twin Study On Primary Role of Diet, Lifestyle upon Cancer Risk

American Institute for Cancer Research
Thursday, 13 July 2000

American Institute for Cancer Research Offers Simple, Practical Guidelines to Lower Risk

In light of an important study appearing in the July 13 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), researchers associated with the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) reminded the public that cancer is a disease that is largely preventable through changes to the diet, maintenance of a healthy weight, regular exercise, and avoidance of tobacco. The Institute is offering a free brochure to the public with practical, everyday guidelines that can dramatically lower cancer risk.

The NEJM study combined data on over 44,788 pairs of twins in Finland, Sweden and Denmark, where government twin registries make it easier for scientists to research twins. The study set out to assess the relative importance of genetic (i.e., inherited) and environmental (i.e., associated with diet, lifestyle and other factors). The researchers concluded that an individual's environment makes a much larger contribution to his or her cancer risk than do inherited genetic factors.

"This study confirms something AICR has been saying for two decades: simple changes in your everyday life can radically reduce your risk of cancer," said Ritva Butrum, Ph.D., AICR Vice President for Research. (Dr. Butrum happens herself to be an identical twin of Finnish birth. She did not, however, participate in the study.)

The NEJM study adds to the consistent and convincing data telling us that cancer is a largely preventable disease, Dr. Butrum said. In fact, AICR researchers estimate that 60 to 70 percent of all cancers can be avoided by making small, ongoing changes in what we eat and how we live.

"But now that we know this," she asked, "what do we do about it? How do we transform the continually mounting scientific evidence into simple, practical advice for lowering risk?" The answers, she said, are outlined in a free AICR brochure entitled Simple Steps to Prevent Cancer.

AICR's Diet and Health Guidelines for Cancer Prevention

1. Choose a diet rich in a variety of plant-based foods.
2. Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits
3. Maintain a healthy weight and be physically active.
4. Drink alcohol only in moderation, if at all.
5. Select foods low in fat and salt.
6. Prepare and store food safely.
And always remember
Do not use tobacco in any form.

The brochure explains the importance of these diet and lifestyle factors, and offers tips on menu planning and making time for exercise. The free brochure is available to the public by sending a SASE to: "Simple Steps to Prevent Cancer," American Institute for Cancer Research, 1759 R St. NW, PO Box 97167, Washington, DC 20090-7167.

For more information, or to contact American Institute for Cancer Research, see their website at: www.aicr.org