Cancer prevention is action taken to lower the chance of getting cancer. In 2023, roughly 2.0 million people will be diagnosed with cancer in the United States. An estimated 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer, which makes it the most common cancer diagnosis. Prostate cancer is the leading cancer diagnosis among men and the second most common diagnosis overall with 288,300 expected cases. Lung and bronchus cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosis with an estimated 238,340 new cases.

In addition to the physical problems and emotional distress caused by cancer, the high costs of care are also a burden to patients, their families, and to the public. An estimated 20% of all cancers diagnosed in the United States are caused by a combination of excess body weight, physical inactivity, excess alcohol consumption and poor nutrition. By participating in healthy behaviors, the risk for developing diseases, including cancer, is reduced.

The Facts

The World Health Organization estimates that between 30-50% of cancers are preventable, either through eliminating environmental exposures to carcinogens or through modifying lifestyle behaviors. Some factors associated with increased cancer risks include: being overweight or obese; poor nutrition and physical activity; tobacco use; UV exposure; and alcohol use.