A new study, commissioned by Cancer Research UK, has found an alarming ignorance about cancer and how to reduce the risk of the disease. Scientific research has shown that at least half of all cases of cancer could be prevented. But this message needs to reach the general public.
Of the 4,000 people questioned, two thirds (66 percent) were unaware that being overweight or obese increases the risk of some cancers. And almost exactly the same number (67 percent) did not know that a diet low in fruit and vegetables could increase their chance of getting the disease.
Only one third (34 percent) mentioned drinking less alcohol as a way of reducing risk. And around 75 percent of those questioned were ignorant of the cancer risks posed by taking HRT or having many sexual partners.
But almost a quarter (24 percent) believed living near power lines was a risk. And more than one third (34 percent) thought stress was linked to cancer. Yet there is no strong scientific evidence to support either of these beliefs.
These findings are part of a comprehensive survey of 4,000 people designed to assess how much they know about cancer which is diagnosed in more than 270,000 people in Britain each year.
But there is some good news. The message that 'smoking kills' has gotten through to most people. More than 90 percent of those questioned said smoking increased your chance of developing cancer. This rose to 94 percent in the 45-54 age bracket.
"Already we are making headway on tobacco. The vast majority of people in this country know that smoking causes cancer. And the vast majority of smokers want to give up. This is heartening news," said Professor Alex Markham, Cancer Research UK's Chief Executive.
"But our survey has shown there is a great deal more to do. Lack of awareness among the public is a major concern. It is important for people to realize that being a healthy weight and eating a properly balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables can really make a difference to their cancer risk. As can maintaining an active lifestyle and taking advantage of screening programs."
SOURCE:
Cancer Research UK (http://www.cancerresearchuk.org)
