Other potential environmental causes of cancer being investigated include infectious agents, maternal diet during pregnancy, ultraviolet and ionizing radiation, certain medications, food additives, tobacco, alcohol, heavy metals and air pollution. I have heard that there are pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables. Return to Top Yes. Federal and state governments regulate pesticides. These regulations require the compounds to go through over 120 separate tests before they can be registered for use, and their safety continues to be monitored.
Foods continue to be tested when they are taken from the fields and from the grocery market basket.
A panel of cancer experts including members of the American Cancer Society concluded in 1997 that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is important in the reduction of cancer risk. For additional information see reference 1. The most preventable causes of cancer are those related to exposure to tobacco smoke, overexposure to the sun, and what you eat. Encourage your child to avoid the sun from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Avoid getting sunburn. When in the sun, wear a hat and use sunscreen.