(Arlington, VA, Wednesday, February 3, 2021) – February is National Cancer Prevention Month dedicated to raising cancer awareness and lowering cancer risk. Less than half of Americans are aware that drinking alcohol, eating diets high in red meat and low in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fiber and not getting enough physical activity all have a clear link to cancer development, according to the most recent National Cancer Risk and Awareness Survey.
American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) has launched the Healthy10 Challenge and is asking Americans to “Take the Ten!” to adopt healthier habits to reduce risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. This new online tool will help Americans put AICR’s Cancer Prevention Recommendations into action. The 10-week program is free and designed to improve diet, nutrition, physical activity and weight for reducing cancer risk and improving overall health.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 70% of Americans aged 20 and older have overweight or obesity. Overweight and obesity increase the risk of 12 types of cancer and the CDC notes that adults who have excess weight are also at greater risk of severe COVID 19 symptoms during the pandemic.
Several studies have concluded that consumption of alcoholic drink increases the risk of six types of cancer but there is a severe lack of awareness on alcohol and cancer risk. A new study published in Cancer Epidemiology shows that from 2013-2016, alcohol consumption accounted for 4.8% of cancer cases and 3.2% of cancer deaths annually. Nielson reports that in March 2020 when COVID-19 began causing shutdowns across the United States, national sales of alcohol increased by 54%.
To learn more about the Healthy10 Challenge, visit www.healthy10challenge.org.
The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) helps the public understand the relationship between lifestyle, nutrition and cancer risk. AICR works to prevent cancer through innovative research, community programs and impactful public health initiatives. Find evidence-based tools and information for lowering cancer risk, including AICR’s Recommendation for Cancer Prevention, at www.aicr.org.