Think You're Destined for Cancer? You may be Right!
By Andrea Hughes, Ivanhoe Health Correspondent
May 18, 2007
ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Believing cancer is inevitable may increase your risk for getting it. According to a new survey, people who believe there is nothing they can do about getting are less likely to take measures that could lower their risk, like eating more fruits and vegetables, exercising and not smoking.
The survey, conducted by the National Cancer Institute, was the first national survey in 20 years to assess the attitudes of Americans toward cancer prevention. More than 6,000 people were asked if they agreed with three statements about cancer. About 27 percent of people agreed with the statement "There's not much people can do to lower their chances of getting cancer." About 47 percent of those surveyed agreed that "It seems like almost everything causes cancer," and about 72 percent agreed with the statement, "There are so many recommendations about preventing cancer, it's hard to know which ones to follow."
Those who agreed with at least one of the statements were less likely than others to exercise weekly and eat five daily servings of fruits and vegetables. Jeff Niederdeppe, Ph.D., a researcher on from the University of Wisconsin, says the ideas surrounding cancer and the prevention of it may come from a general lack of education. Dr. Niederdeppe told Ivanhoe, "I think we need to do a better job of communicating information about cancer prevention. I think doctors can do a better job of educating patients about the specific things they can do to prevent cancer, and I think they can do so using clear and simple language." He also suggested searching the Internet for information on cancer risks.
Researchers conclude little progress has been made in the last 20 years in trying to change the belief that "everything causes cancer." In addition to the aforementioned preventive measures, Dr. Niederdeppe suggested, "I'd encourage people to have a regular, annual checkup with a doctor, and there are several screening tests that people could do." He added, "I think the most important takeaway point is that we do know very specific things people can do to reduce their risk. You can't guarantee that you're not going to get it, but you can put the odds in your favor."
SOURCE: Ivanhoe interview with Jeff Niederdeppe, Ph.D., Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, 2007;16: 998-1003
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