On October 24, a National Cancer Opinion Survey by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) revealed some startling facts about what American adults know about two major cancer risks.

The good news is the survey found that most adults do understand tobacco use and sun exposure put them at a higher risk for cancer. 89% of adults are actively taking steps to prevent cancer by not smoking (66%) and eating fruits and vegetables (50%).

Surprisingly low, were the numbers of adults who consider weight and alcohol risk factors for cancer. Only 31% realized obesity would increase their risk and 41% of claimed to maintain a healthy weight as prevention. Only 30% reported knowing that alcohol consumption would increase the risk of cancer, and just 38% they limit their alcohol intake as prevention.

"This research helps us understand what our fellow Americans know and believe about cancer, and therefore where we need to focus as a nation in our efforts to conquer cancer… It is clear there are many important gaps we need to address — from educating the public about cancer prevention, to confronting high treatment costs, to investing in cancer research that is vital to improving patients' outcomes in the future," said Bruce Johnson, MD, president of ASCO, in a statement.

We are facing an epidemic in our country, with more than a third of Americans considered obese, and because of associated factors those adults are at an increased risk to develop cancer. Adults who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk to develop endometrial, breast, colon, kidney, gallbladder, or liver cancer.

While a cure for cancer has not yet been discovered, there have been many links found between certain behaviors or lifestyles that increase risks. So, many could lower their risks, or avoid cancer altogether, by making conscious, healthy lifestyle choices. 

At TimeLess Medical Spa & Weight Loss Clinic, our goal is not to help you “get high school skinny.” Our number one priority is your health! We know that disease prevention starts with addressing your overall health. With a balanced, high protein, low calorie diet we will help you lose fat and maintain the most optimal weight for your health.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Overweight & Obesity. Retrieved from CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/

MedScape. (2017, October 24). Oncology. Most US Adults Unaware of Two Major Cancer Risk Factors.