As explained in the previous article on page 456, we've had slow progress in preventing cancer deaths, yet an enormous body of literature suggests that we can help prevent cancer simply by making a few changes in our diets. What we eat influences the development of many cancers, especially cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, breast, uterus and prostate. In populations consuming a Western diet, roughly 40 percent of all cancers in men and 60 percent of women's cancers are believed to be diet-related. First and foremost, an anti-cancer diet should be low in fat.
Population studies show a strong relationship between cancer risk and fat intake.
2 High levels of dietary cholesterol, infamous for promoting heart disease, are also associated in people with an increased risk of cancer of the lungs, larynx and ovaries. The Western diet tends toward excessive protein, at the expense of fiber. Unfortunately, high protein consumption is associated with an increased risk of many diet-responsive cancers such as those mentioned above. Low fiber intake has been linked with an increased risk of breast, colon and rectal cancers. All these dietary goals can be met, or at least approached, by eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.