Only 3% aware of link between weight and cancer…

This is according to a survey by Cancer Research UK, the results of which were released on 4th August 2009. Each year, they survey a sample of the population to find out what they know about cancer risk factors and symptoms.
This year, 3,947 people were asked ‘What are the main changes people can make to their lifestyles to reduce the risk of cancer? ’Participants were not given any hints as to what these might be, but named the following:
Smoking – 66%
Food and diet – 59%
Exercise – 29%
Alcohol – 22%
Sun and skincare – 11%
Bodyweight – 3%
Don’t know/nothing – 7%

Sara Hiom, director of health information at Cancer Research UK said:

“We have estimated that more than 13,000 cases of cancer could be prevented each year if everyone maintained a healthy weight.”
“While many people associate weight with being healthy in general, this survey shows that most people don’t link it directly with their risk of cancer, or don’t know how much it can reduce their risk.”
“Leading a healthy life with a balanced diet and plenty of exercise does not guarantee that a person won’t get cancer but these healthy habits can help to cut the odds."

Being overweight is seen to be a risk factor as the fat tissues in overweight people produce more hormones and other growth factors than those in people of a healthy weight. High levels of some of these hormones can increase the risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer in women after the menopause.[1]



5th August 2009



[1] Source: http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/healthyliving/obesityandweight/