Cancer

According to the *National Cancer Institute, about 1 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2003, and about half of those will succumb to the disease. Although cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S., the survival rate for many types of cancer has improved in recent years. People can reduce their risk of cancer by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Scientists have learned that cancer is caused by changes in genes that control normal cell growth and cell death. Certain lifestyle and environmental factors can change some normal genes into genes that allow the growth of cancer. Many genetic changes that lead to cancer are the result of tobacco use, poor diet, exposure to UV radiation from the sun, or exposure to carcinogens. People can reduce their chances of getting cancer by:

Exercising regularly and avoiding obesity
Choosing foods with less saturated fats
Eating more vegetables, fruits and whole grains
Not using tobacco products
Avoiding overexposure to the sun