Diet is key to avoiding cancer

Alcohol abuse and obesity increase the risk of cancer

Alcohol abuse and obesity have been confirmed as major factors which can increase the risk of cancer.

Timothy Key, a dietary expert, said the findings of his team at Oxford University, confirmed the popular belief about the cause of many types of cancer.

The research also highlighted the importance of diet in the fight against the disease.

Prudent advice is to maintain a healthy weight, restrict alcohol consumption and select a conventionally balanced diet

Dr Timothy Key

Dr Key said: ""Because the public is so bombarded and confused by stories that broccoli is the answer, or whatever, we wanted to get away from that and report what we know is really important.

"Despite extensive research during the last 30 years, few specific dietary determinants of cancer risk have been established.

"Even for cancers such as colorectal cancer researchers agree that diet probably has important effects.

"At present, prudent advice is to maintain a healthy weight, restrict alcohol consumption, and select a conventionally balanced diet ensuring an adequate intake of fruit, vegetables, and cereals."

Obesity increases the risk of cancers in the oesophagus, colorectum, breast, endometrium and kidney, the research found.

Alcohol abuse leads to cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, oesophagus, and liver, and causes a small increase in the risk of breast cancer.