Up to 4 in 10 cancers
are preventable.
Research shows that many cancers can be prevented through lifestyle changes and participation in NHS screening programmes. Small, consistent actions can significantly reduce your risk.
Note: Prevention reduces risk but cannot guarantee against cancer. Always attend NHS screening when invited and see your GP if you notice any concerning symptoms.
Six ways to reduce your cancer risk
Based on Cancer Research UK evidence and NHS guidance, these are the most impactful steps you can take to lower your risk.
Stop Smoking
72% of lung cancers are caused by smoking
- Smoking causes at least 15 types of cancer
- Stopping at any age reduces your risk
- Free NHS Stop Smoking services are available
- Risk reduces significantly within 5 years of stopping
Be Physically Active
3.5k UK cancer cases per year linked to inactivity
- Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
- Physical activity reduces bowel, breast and womb cancer risk
- Even small increases in activity make a difference
- Reduces cancer risk by maintaining a healthy weight
Eat a Healthy Diet
40% of cancers are linked to lifestyle factors
- Eat plenty of fibre — wholegrains, vegetables and pulses
- Limit processed and red meat consumption
- Eat at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables daily
- Limit alcohol — it is linked to 7 types of cancer
Reduce Alcohol
7 types of cancer are linked to alcohol
- Alcohol increases risk of breast, bowel and liver cancer
- There is no completely safe level of alcohol
- Cutting down reduces your risk even if you drink moderately
- NHS guidelines: no more than 14 units per week
Protect Your Skin
86% of melanomas are caused by UV exposure
- Use SPF 30+ sunscreen on exposed skin
- Avoid sunbeds — they increase melanoma risk
- Seek shade between 11am and 3pm
- Check your skin regularly for new or changing moles
Attend Screening
1 in 4 cancers could be caught earlier through screening
- Attend bowel, breast and cervical screening when invited
- Screening finds cancers before symptoms appear
- Earlier detection means more treatment options
- Talk to your GP if you are not receiving invitations
Always attend your screening
NHS screening finds cancers before symptoms appear — when treatment is most effective. Always respond to your screening invitation.
Bowel Cancer Screening
Breast Cancer Screening
Cervical Cancer Screening
Lung Cancer Screening
Prevention is not equal for everyone
Cancer prevention advice is not always accessible or relevant to everyone equally. Structural inequalities, cultural barriers and socioeconomic factors mean that some communities face greater challenges in reducing their cancer risk.
Cancer Path is specifically designed to address these inequalities — providing culturally sensitive, accessible information that reaches the communities who need it most.
People in the most deprived areas are 40% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer at a late stage.
Black and Asian communities have lower cancer screening uptake due to cultural and structural barriers.
Socioeconomic factors affect access to healthy food, safe exercise spaces and GP services.
Cancer Path is designed to address these inequalities through targeted, culturally sensitive education.
Take the next step with Cancer Path
Use our evidence-based platform to learn more about cancer prevention, symptoms and screening — tailored to your needs.
Frequently asked questions
Evidence-based answers to the most common questions about cancer prevention and screening.
Last reviewed: · Content aligned with NHS and NICE clinical guidance.