The textbook American Cancer Society states about one third of the annual cancer deaths are attributable to what we eat. Another third is due to smoking and a smaller proportion is attributable to alcoholic beverages. If everyone applied what we know right now about cancer deaths could be decreased by 25 to 50 percent. Diet is one of the most important areas of cancer prevention. Healthier eating can reduce cancer rates and since everyone eats, diet effects 100 percent of the population.
Some food groups tend to prevent cancer while others tend to increase the incidence of cancer.
Cancers of the colon, rectum, breast, prostate, uterus, and gall bladder have all been associated with diet. In addition it is suspected that cancers of the stomach, esophagus, pancreas, ovary, liver, lung and bladder could also be reduced by dietary changes. The amount of milk and meat should be held constant but be selected so that fat content is reduced. Consumption of pickled and smoked foods should be limited. Maintain an optional body weight is also important.