Reduce Your Risk
Up to one third of cancers are preventable through making lifestyle changes. On top of reducing our risk of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, these changes can improve our lives and our health, regardless of whether we notice any physical changes.
Here are some easy to adopt behaviours that will reduce your cancer risk:
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancers in the world, with approximately 2 in 3 Australians diagnosed before the age of 70.
Sun protection is required when the UV level reaches 3 or above to minimise the risk of skin damage, including skin cancer, whilst spending time outdoors.
Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death and disease in Australia.
The good news is that no matter how long you have smoked, quitting will benefit your health now and in the future. It will also benefit the health of your friends and family and save you money.
Physical activity assists in maintaining a healthy body weight and can improve energy levels and feelings of wellbeing. Being more active is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
A healthy diet will help reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, and can also support your recovery after cancer treatment.
Evidence shows that being overweight or obese, having a poor diet, and being physically inactive all increase your risk of developing certain cancers.
Even drinking small amounts of alcohol increases your cancer risk. The more you drink, the greater the risk.
In most cases, treatment can be more effective when cancer is found early.
National screening programs are available in Australia to detect breast cancer, bowel cancer and cervical cancer.