Our everyday eating and living habits can affect our chances of getting a cancer diagnosis, and Cancer Prevention Month aims to inform people on what healthy choices they should make.

Kim Durst with the American Cancer Society says their mission is for early detection and prevention of cancer, “What we have seen is that many cancers can be detoured and prevented by a more systematic effort by avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, getting a healthy diet, getting enough exercise, limiting alcohol intake, as well as following the recommended screenings and vaccinations. So you know we really want to see more people be more proactive in the prevention against cancer.”

Durst adds that in the last 25 years cancer deaths have dropped by 27% saving over 2.6 million lives. Daily habits can affect your risk of cancer, as the World Cancer Research Fund estimates about 20% of all cancers diagnosed in the U.S. are related to body fatness, physical inactivity, excess alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition. Other important ways to prevent cancer include being safe in the sun, avoiding tobacco, protection against human papillomavirus, and talking with your healthcare provider about recommended cancer screenings.