Research like this has led to significant advances in the treatment of cancer. People who take part in these studies have the first chance to benefit from treatments that have shown promise. They also make an important contribution to medical science. Cancer develops gradually as a result of a complex mix of factors related to environment, lifestyle, and heredity. Scientists have identified many factors that increase the chance of getting cancer.
Some people are more sensitive than others to factors that can cause cancer.
Many cases of cancer can be prevented by not using tobacco products, avoiding harmful rays of the sun, and choosing foods with less fat and more fiber. Many risk factors can be avoided. Others, such as inherited factors, are unavoidable. People who have an increased likelihood of getting cancer can help protect themselves by avoiding risk factors where possible and by getting regular checkups so that, if cancer develops, it is likely to be found early. Treatment is likely to be more effective when cancer is detected early.