(Arlington, VA, Tuesday, February 1, 2022) – February is National Cancer Prevention Month, which is dedicated to raising cancer awareness and lowering cancer risk. Major progress in our understanding of how dietary patterns, the human microbiome and exercise fight cancer have helped transform cancer prevention since 1982, when the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) was founded.

AICR is highlighting the transformative progress in cancer prevention over the past four decades. That progress has led to AICR’s 10 Cancer Prevention Recommendations, the evidence-based action plan to lower risk of the most common cancers. Approximately four of every 10 U.S. cancer cases could be prevented with health-related changes including diet, weight and physical activity.

Independent studies now show that people who eat more plant foods, are physically active and follow more of the Cancer Prevention Recommendations have less risk of developing some of the most common cancers. Research also indicates that following the recommendations help cancer survivors and increase survival.

The challenge now is to raise awareness and put these recommendations into action. A recent Risk Factor Awareness survey found less than half of the population are aware of the strongest risk factors for cancer.

AICR has developed tools to address these dual goals:  The Cancer Health Check is a simple online tool, taking only a few minutes to complete, that assesses how well you are following AICR’s Cancer Prevention Recommendations; and The Healthy10 Challenge is a free 10-week online interactive program that is designed to help you address any of the aspects of lifestyle highlighted for potential improvement by the Cancer Health Check.

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.