Cancer risk factors
The food and drink we consume, our activity levels and our weight all influence our risk of cancer – these are all what we call exposures, or simply risk factors. Read our evidence about how our daily lifestyle makes a difference and the things can both increase or reduce your risk of cancer.
Wholegrains, vegetables and fruit
Our strong evidence on how consuming wholegrains and foods containing fibre decreases the risk of cancer
Meat, fish and dairy products
Learn about findings on red and processed meat, fish and dairy products and their impact on the risk of cancer
Preservation and processing
Preservation and processing methods affect foods’ nutritional value as well as their potential to be capable of causing cancer
Non-alcoholic drinks
The impact of drinks such as water, tea, coffee and mate on cancer risk are less commonly known – read our findings
Alcoholic drinks
Evidence shows that, in general, the more alcoholic drinks people consume, the higher the risk of many cancers
Vitamins, minerals and other nutrients
Certain supplements can have a significant impact on your cancer risk
Physical activity
There is strong evidence that being physically active decreases the risk of colorectal and other cancers
Obesity and weight gain
Excess weight and obesity have been linked to 12 cancers, including some of the most common types
Height and birthweight
Developmental factors leading to greater height in adulthood increase the risk of some cancers
Lactation (breastfeeding)
Breastfeeding (lactation) has important benefits for both mother and baby
What is cancer?
Read the evidence on how diet, nutrition and physical activity can influence how cancer grows and develops
Our recommendations
What should you do to reduce your risk of cancer? We’ve identified 10 recommendations